Odisha Launches ‘Jeevan Zindabad’ Campaign to Combat Youth Suicides

A state-wide initiative titled “Jeevan Zindabad” will be launched across all 30 districts of Odisha starting September 10, 2023, coinciding with World Suicide Prevention Day. The campaign aims to address rising suicidal tendencies among youth, employing a range of creative performances and real-life success stories to inspire hope and resilience.

This initiative is spearheaded by the Naman Foundation in partnership with the Odisha Police and the Sports and Youth Services Department. Over 70 artists, including singers, comedians, and motivational speakers, will participate, sharing experiences that highlight the importance of mental health and community support.

Strategic Meeting Sets Campaign in Motion

The decision to launch this campaign was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Suryabansi Suraj, the Higher Education Minister, at Lok Seva Bhavan. Key figures present included Manoj Ahuja, Chief Secretary; YB Khurania, Director General of Police; and actor Sabyasachi Mishra, among other senior officials. Minister Suraj emphasized that this campaign would be a collaborative effort involving multiple departments, including Higher Education, Women & Child Development, and Home Affairs.

Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja highlighted the critical role of district administrations in executing the campaign. He suggested incorporating speech and essay competitions in schools and colleges to enhance awareness and engagement among students. Actor Sabyasachi Mishra remarked, “When we think of suicide, we think of youth. This program aims to instill hope and positivity.”

Campaign Background and Activities

The Jeevan Zindabad campaign is a response to the tragic suicide of a college student from Balasore on August 11, which sparked public concern and led to a pilot event in Bhubaneswar. Following its success, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi advocated for the expansion of the initiative throughout the state.

Each event in the campaign will last for approximately three hours, hosted in the largest district auditoriums. It will include an awareness walk featuring participation from students, volunteers, and organizations like the National Cadet Corps (NCC), Scouts, and Guides. The campaign will kick off at the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology Auditorium in Bhubaneswar and conclude in Cuttack with an award ceremony recognizing outstanding contributions to mental health awareness.

The comprehensive approach of the Jeevan Zindabad campaign seeks to create a supportive environment for youth, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being and community involvement in preventing suicide. This initiative represents a significant step forward in addressing a pressing social issue that affects many families and communities across the state.