On January 5, 2026, the Indian Institute of Technology Ropar inaugurated the Dr. Ishan Avdhoot Shivanand Center for Yogic Sciences and Holistic Development. This new center is dedicated to advancing holistic health, mental well-being, and spiritual development. The inauguration was led by IIT Ropar’s Director, Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, and featured notable attendees including the center’s namesake, Dr. Ishan Shivanand, a renowned mental health expert, along with Dr. Atharva Poundarik, head of the Biomedical Engineering Department, and esteemed cardiologist Dr. Bindukumar Kansupada.
Aligned with the opening of this center, IIT Ropar in collaboration with Dr. Ishan Shivanand, also introduced the Dr. Ishan Shivanand Scholarship for Gifted Youth. This scholarship initiative offers 10 full scholarships—split equally between undergraduate and postgraduate levels—to academically exceptional students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Key features of this initiative include:
– A Well-Equipped Wellness Hub: The center is equipped with versatile halls designated for activities such as yoga, meditation, gymnastics, and stress management workshops. It also supports mental health counseling and promotes research on holistic health practices.
– Tackling the Mental Health Crisis: This initiative aims to address and mitigate mental health issues prevalent among students at leading educational institutes through scientifically backed, non-medical treatments.
– Financial Aid for Deserving Students: The scholarship ensures comprehensive financial coverage, including tuition, housing, living expenses, and participation in wellness programs, thereby removing economic barriers for talented students.
– Setting a National Standard: This project underscores the synergy between academic success and student health, serving as a model for other educational institutions across the country to follow.
