“IIT Mandi’s mandatory ‘Consciousness and Wellbeing’ course for BTech students, covering topics like reincarnation and out-of-body experiences, has sparked debate over its place in a technical curriculum. The course is part of the institute’s broader efforts to integrate Indian Knowledge Systems with modern scientific research.”

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi, a premier institution known for its engineering excellence, has recently introduced a mandatory course for first-year BTech students titled ‘Introduction to Consciousness and Wellbeing.’ The course, which includes content on reincarnation and out-of-body experiences, has ignited a heated debate, with critics questioning its relevance in a technical curriculum.

Course Overview:

The ‘Introduction to Consciousness and Wellbeing’ course is part of the broader Indian Knowledge System and Mental Health Application (IKSMHA) Centre at IIT Mandi. The Centre, established in July 2022, aims to explore the intersection of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) with modern scientific research on the mind, brain, and consciousness. The course curriculum is designed to introduce students to concepts traditionally rooted in Indian philosophy, such as reincarnation, alongside modern scientific studies on consciousness.

The Controversy:

The inclusion of topics like reincarnation and out-of-body experiences has drawn criticism from various quarters, with detractors arguing that such content is out of place in a curriculum primarily focused on technical and engineering education. They contend that the course’s focus on spiritual and philosophical concepts could detract from the core engineering subjects, potentially diluting the academic rigor of the institution.

Institutional Response:

In response to the controversy, IIT Mandi’s administration has defended the course, emphasizing its interdisciplinary nature and the importance of a holistic education. Professor Laxmidhar Behera, Director of IIT Mandi, highlighted the flexibility of the curriculum, allowing students to explore diverse fields and switch branches based on their interests after the first year. “We are working on creating a structure where researchers from engineering and medical backgrounds can collaborate on interdisciplinary research and have the freedom to choose their specialization,” Professor Behera stated.

The Indian Knowledge Systems and Mental Health Application (IKSMHA) Center:

The IKSMHA Center at IIT Mandi is a pioneering initiative that brings together over 40 researchers and 20 faculty members from diverse fields, including computer engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, yoga, and linguistics. The Middle is prepared with advanced logical instruments such as a 32-channel EEG/ERP framework and Oculus Fracture Headsets, encouraging cutting-edge inquiry about mental wellbeing applications.

The Center’s objectives include becoming a global leader in research related to Indian Knowledge Systems and mental health, translating this research into practical applications for society, and developing prototypes for mental health diagnostics, therapy, and general well-being.

Expanding the Reach of Indian Knowledge Systems:

IIT Mandi is not alone in its efforts to integrate Indian knowledge systems into its curriculum. Similar initiatives have been launched at other prestigious institutions, including IIT Madras, IIT Roorkee, and IIT Gandhinagar. These centers and courses aim to explore the scientific basis of traditional Indian practices such as yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, and various Indian performing arts.

While the introduction of the ‘Consciousness and Wellbeing’ course at IIT Mandi has sparked controversy, it also represents a broader trend of integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific research. As IIT Mandi and other institutions continue to explore these interdisciplinary fields, the debate over the role of such courses in technical education is likely to persist. However, the institution’s commitment to providing a holistic education that bridges the gap between tradition and modernity is clear, setting a precedent for future academic endeavors in India.