Defunct first Anand Cell of DAVV to spring into action as govt pushes happiness cells at all colleges

Indore: Once projected as a model initiative, Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya's Anand Cell, the state's first happiness cell set up in 2016, has slipped into near inactivity after a brief phase of early engagement, raising concern over the continuity of well-being initiatives in higher education institutions.Launched in line with the Madhya Pradesh govt's Anand Dept, the cell was conceived to promote inner well-being alongside academic growth, recognising that material progress alone does not ensure a fulfilling life. In its early phase at DAVV, the cell organised seminars, symposiums and a three-day workshop titled, Crafting Career with Happiness, for students of university teaching departments. These programmes aimed to introduce students to balanced living, self-awareness and emotional resilience.The cell at the university was set up as part of the state-wide initiative that brought several universities and institutions under its fold to promote well-being. Initially, it was supported by a team of five to six members tasked with carrying forward its activities.Later, the momentum could not be sustained, university officials indicated. "With a few programmes in the beginning, the activities gradually faded out, especially after the pandemic and the retirement of the in-charge," a member of the Anand Cell retired professor Maya Ingle said.She said that while initial sessions on health and well-being drew participation, the initiative lacked continuity in later years.Recently, the state govt planned to introduce happiness cells across all govt colleges. Led by Rajya Anand Sansthan, the move is aimed at addressing increasing stress levels among students and creating structured platforms for emotional support. Over 300 professors have already been trained to conduct weekly sessions focusing on life skills, harmony and coping with academic pressure.Now, at a time when the state govt is moving ahead with plans to introduce happiness cells across all govt colleges, experts point out the experience at DAVV highlights the difficulty of sustaining such initiatives at institutional level. They stress that without consistent leadership, regular activities and oversight, such efforts risk losing relevance over time.Members associated with the DAVV Anand Cell believe the initiative still holds relevance and must be revived. "There is a clear need to restart such platforms. Students as well as teachers face considerable stress, and structured initiatives like the Anand Cell can help create a more supportive academic environment," said Yamini Karmarkar, a member of the cell.Indicating that there are plans to revive and restructure the initiative, vice-chancellor RK Singhai told TOI, "We have been working to develop the cell into a wellness centre, though the process is still underway. With the state govt now placing renewed focus on this initiative, we will restart the cell for the benefit of students."
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