Half Marathon Organized at Gurugram University to Promote Mental Health Awareness under “Samnvay 2026”

Gurugram, 22 February: The Department of Psychology at Gurugram University, in collaboration with Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS), Delhi and Gurugram Police, is organizing “Samnvay 2026: International Mental Health Conference – An Integrated Initiative for Research and Practice” from 22 to 25 February 2026.

The four-day event commenced early Sunday morning at the university’s Sector 51 campus with a half marathon based on the theme “Together Against Stigma.” Held under the guidance of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sanjay Kaushik, the marathon witnessed enthusiastic participation from a large number of youth, aiming to spread awareness about mental health.

First-Ever Half Marathon Focused on Mental Health

Conference Convener and Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences and Education, Dr. Gayatri Raina stated that the half marathon was organized as an inspiring initiative under the international conference to raise awareness about mental health. The event aimed to encourage youth to adopt a positive lifestyle and to strengthen dialogue around mental well-being in society.

She emphasized that Samnvay 2026 is not merely an academic conference but a powerful platform that bridges research and practical dimensions in the field of mental health. Activities such as the half marathon instill energy, discipline, and collective consciousness among young participants.

Mental Health is a Social Responsibility

Dr. Gayatri Raina highlighted that mental health is not just a personal issue but a social responsibility. Hundreds of students participated enthusiastically in the marathon, spreading positive messages such as “Mental Health Matters” and “Run for Well-Being.” The campus reflected strong energy and a sense of social commitment. She added that awareness, participation, and collective efforts are essential to promote mental well-being.

Dean Academic Affairs Prof. Neera Verma, Dr. Ashok Khanna, Dr. Sagarika Phogat, and other senior university officials were present on the occasion.

Activities Scheduled for the Second Day

On Monday, the second day of the conference will feature multiple sessions centered on mental health. The program will begin with registration at 8:30 am, followed by the inaugural session at 9:30 am in the auditorium.

Dr. Gayatri Raina will deliver the welcome address. The chief guest, Prof. R.K. Dhamija, Director of IHBAS, Delhi, will share his insights. Prof. H.K. Aggarwal, Vice-Chancellor of Pandit Bhagwat Dayal Sharma University of Health Sciences, and Mr. K.K. Kapila, President Emeritus of the International Road Federation, will attend as distinguished guests.

The event will also mark the inauguration of the “Mano-Sukoon” Mental Health Clinic, followed by a brief presentation. The session will be chaired by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sanjay Kaushik, and the vote of thanks will be delivered by Dean Student Welfare Prof. (Dr.) Amarjeet Kaur.

From 11:30 am to 1:00 pm, a panel discussion titled “Confluence for Mental Well-Being: Global Challenges, Collaborative Action and Shared Future” will be held. The keynote speaker will be Prof. Manoj Jena from Jawaharlal Nehru University. Panelists will include experts from O. P. Jindal Global University, Jamia Millia Islamia, and other institutions, along with international wellness expert Jessica DeVries from Australia.

Post-lunch, from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm, multiple technical sessions will be conducted covering themes such as innovation in clinical practice, psychology’s role across communities and cultures, integration of research, policy and practice in mental health, and undergraduate poster presentations.

Additionally, a workshop on Psychophysiology and Biofeedback will be conducted from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm by Prof. S.P.K. Jena from the University of Delhi.

The conference aims to create meaningful dialogue, promote research-based interventions, and encourage collaborative efforts to address global mental health challenges.