.png&w=1920&q=75)
M-TECH in Indian Knowledge System And Mental Health Application Iksmha at Indian Institute of Technology Mandi
Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Indian Knowledge System and Mental Health Application (IKSMHA) at Indian Institute of Technology Mandi Mandi?
This Indian Knowledge System and Mental Health Application program at IIT Mandi focuses on integrating ancient Indian wisdom with modern mental health science. It uniquely addresses contemporary well-being challenges by leveraging India''''s rich heritage, offering a distinct approach to mental health relevant to the national context and growing global interest in holistic healing.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for engineering, science, and psychology graduates seeking to innovate in holistic mental health. It caters to fresh graduates aspiring for research and development roles, and working professionals including therapists and wellness practitioners looking to integrate traditional Indian approaches into their practice for enhanced impact in India and abroad.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in integrative mental health clinics, wellness industries, research institutions, and digital health startups. Roles include IKS-based therapists, mental health researchers, product developers for well-being tech, and consultants. Salaries can range from INR 5-8 LPA for entry-level to 15+ LPA with experience, with strong growth trajectories in a burgeoning wellness market.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Deep Dive into IKS Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Engage thoroughly with core texts and philosophical concepts of Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) and foundational neuroscience. Utilize institute library resources and online platforms like NPTEL for supplementary learning. Form study groups to discuss complex topics, preparing a strong base for interdisciplinary application.
Tools & Resources
IIT Mandi Library, NPTEL IKS courses, Academic journals on IKS, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A robust foundation in IKS is crucial for understanding the program''''s unique interventions, directly impacting research quality and the ability to design culturally relevant mental health solutions for the Indian populace.
Practical Application in Mini Projects- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in Mini Projects, viewing them as opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge. Focus on problem identification, rigorous data collection (even if small-scale), and ethical considerations. Seek guidance from faculty mentors early and regularly, leveraging lab facilities for hands-on experience in psychological assessment.
Tools & Resources
IIT Mandi Labs, Statistical software (R/Python), Research ethics guidelines, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
These projects build practical research skills, critical for M.Tech thesis work and future roles in research & development, clinic-based assessments, or designing effective mental health programs.
Sanskrit Language Acquisition- (Semester 1-2)
Commit to mastering foundational Sanskrit concepts, as it is key to accessing original IKS texts. Attend all language sessions, practice regularly, and utilize online Sanskrit learning platforms. Engage with scholars and peers in optional language clubs or workshops to enhance fluency and comprehension.
Tools & Resources
Sanskrit dictionaries (online/offline), Spoken Sanskrit initiatives, IIT Mandi Sanskrit club (if available)
Career Connection
Proficiency in Sanskrit provides a unique edge in IKS research, enabling direct engagement with source materials and opening avenues for scholarly pursuits and authentic application of traditional knowledge in modern contexts.
Intermediate Stage
Specialized Elective Selection & Deep Dive- (Semester 3)
Carefully select electives based on career aspirations and research interests in consultation with advisors. Dedicate extra effort to deep dive into chosen elective topics, perhaps taking up additional online certifications or workshops to gain specialized skills in areas like data analysis for health or specific therapeutic modalities.
Tools & Resources
Coursera/edX for specialized courses, Professional body workshops (e.g., related to Yoga therapy), IIT Mandi faculty for guidance
Career Connection
Specialized elective knowledge positions students for niche roles in the Indian mental health market, allowing them to become experts in specific IKS applications or modern psychological interventions, enhancing employability and project success.
Participate in National/International Conferences- (Semester 3)
Aim to present research findings from mini-projects or early M.Tech project work at national or even international conferences. This builds presentation skills, allows for networking with experts, and exposes students to cutting-edge research in IKSMHA. Seek funding from the institute for travel and registration.
Tools & Resources
Conference databases (e.g., IEEE, APA India), IIT Mandi research grants/travel funds, Faculty recommendations
Career Connection
Conference participation boosts academic visibility, opens doors for collaborations, and is crucial for a career in research, academia, or high-level R&D roles in the burgeoning Indian wellness industry.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Workshops & Labs- (Semester 3)
Actively seek out workshops and extended lab experiences that bridge IKS and mental health. This might involve participating in meditation retreats, Ayurvedic camps, or neuroscience lab attachments beyond regular coursework. Focus on hands-on skill development in assessment and intervention.
Tools & Resources
NIMHANS workshops, Ayurvedic centers for clinical exposure, IIT Mandi''''s own neuroscience or psychology labs
Career Connection
Hands-on skills developed through such engagements are highly valued by employers in clinical settings, integrative health centers, and research institutions in India, preparing students for immediate practical contributions.
Advanced Stage
High-Impact M.Tech Project Work- (Semester 4)
Focus on developing a high-quality M.Tech thesis that addresses a significant problem at the intersection of IKS and mental health. Aim for publishable results in peer-reviewed journals. Collaborate with faculty and external experts, ensuring the project has real-world applicability or theoretical significance within the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
Journal publication guidelines, EndNote/Zotero for referencing, Collaboration with industry/research partners
Career Connection
A strong M.Tech project is the cornerstone for placements, providing concrete evidence of research capability, problem-solving skills, and specialized knowledge, leading to roles in R&D, academia, or advanced clinical practice.
Placement and Entrepreneurship Preparation- (Semester 4)
Actively prepare for placements by honing interview skills, building a professional portfolio of projects, and networking with alumni and industry professionals. For those considering entrepreneurship, explore IIT Mandi''''s incubation center, mentorship programs, and participate in startup competitions to develop business acumen.
Tools & Resources
IIT Mandi Career Development Cell, Alumni network events, Startup India initiatives, IIT Mandi Catalyst (incubation center)
Career Connection
Targeted preparation ensures successful entry into the job market, either in established companies or by launching one''''s own venture in the rapidly expanding wellness and mental health tech sector in India.
Professional Networking and Mentorship- (Semester 4)
Cultivate a strong professional network by attending seminars, workshops, and industry events related to IKS and mental health. Seek out mentors from faculty, alumni, or industry leaders who can provide guidance on career paths, research opportunities, and navigating the professional landscape in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional associations (e.g., Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists), IIT Mandi alumni portal
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, job opportunities, and collaborative projects, providing invaluable connections that are crucial for long-term career growth and professional development in India''''s dynamic healthcare ecosystem.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Tech./B.E./B.S./B.Pharm./B.Arch./B.Design./M.Sc./M.A. (Psychology) or equivalent degree with minimum 60% aggregate marks (or 6.5 CGPA) for general candidates and 55% aggregate marks (or 6.0 CGPA) for SC/ST/PwD candidates. Relevant GATE score is desirable but not mandatory. Non-GATE candidates with exceptional academic record and/or relevant experience will also be considered. For all admitted students, a valid B.Tech./B.E./B.S./B.Pharm./B.Arch./B.Design./M.Sc./M.A. (Psychology) degree or equivalent is required. For M.A. Psychology students, a minimum of 55% marks (6.0 CGPA) is required.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 69 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IKM501 | Foundations of Indian Knowledge Systems | Core | 3 | Vedic and Post-Vedic Literature, Darsanas and Epistemology, Classical Indian Sciences, Ethical Frameworks in IKS, Sanskritic and Vernacular Traditions |
| IKM502 | Introduction to Mental Health and Well-being | Core | 3 | Concepts of Mental Health, Psychological Disorders Overview, Stress and Coping Mechanisms, Promoting Well-being and Resilience, Mental Hygiene Practices |
| IKM503 | Research Methodology in IKSMHA | Core | 3 | Research Design and Hypotheses, Quantitative and Qualitative Methods, Statistical Analysis Techniques, Ethics in Research, Literature Review and Academic Writing |
| IKM504 | Sanskrit and its Applications in IKS | Core | 3 | Basic Sanskrit Grammar, Reading IKS Texts, Etymology and Lexicography, Sanskrit Literary Traditions, Tools for Sanskrit Research |
| IKM511 | Neuroscience and Yoga Practices | Core | 3 | Brain Structure and Function, Neural Basis of Cognition, Physiology of Yoga, Meditation Techniques, Neuroplasticity and Well-being |
| IKM599 | Mini Project-I | Project | 3 | Project Idea Generation, Problem Definition, Literature Survey, Basic Implementation/Data Collection, Project Report Writing |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IKM505 | Advanced Concepts in Indian Psychology | Core | 3 | Philosophical Schools and Mind, Citta-vrittis and Mental States, Theories of Self and Consciousness, Yoga Psychology, Bhakti and Cognitive Processes |
| IKM506 | Psychopathology and Therapies from Western Perspectives | Core | 3 | DSM and ICD Classification, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Approaches, Clinical Assessment Tools, Pharmacological Interventions Overview |
| IKM507 | Principles and Practices of Ayurveda | Core | 3 | Tridosha Theory, Dhatu and Agni Concepts, Prakriti and Vikriti, Ayurvedic Diagnosis Methods, Basic Ayurvedic Treatments and Lifestyle |
| IKM5XX | Elective-I | Elective | 3 | Advanced topics in IKS, Specific mental health interventions, Data science for health, Traditional art forms and well-being, Cross-cultural psychology |
| IKM512 | Psychological Assessment and Intervention Lab | Lab | 3 | Administering Psychological Tests, Interviewing Techniques, Case Formulation, Ethical Guidelines in Practice, Intervention Planning and Practice |
| IKM598 | Mini Project-II | Project | 3 | Advanced Project Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Experimental Study Design, Technical Report Writing, Oral Presentation Skills |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IKM601 | Mental Health Interventions from IKS Perspectives | Core | 3 | Yoga Therapy for Mental Disorders, Mindfulness and Meditation Interventions, Ayurvedic Psychological Counseling, Spiritual Counseling Approaches, Narrative and Experiential IKS Therapies |
| IKM602 | Cognitive Science and Consciousness | Core | 3 | Western Theories of Consciousness, Indian Theories of Consciousness, Cognition: Attention and Memory, Perception and Decision Making, Mind-Body Problem in IKS |
| IKM6XX | Elective-II | Elective | 3 | Advanced Sanskrit Studies, Digital Humanities in IKS, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Health Psychology, Sociology of Health and Illness |
| IKM6XX | Elective-III | Elective | 3 | Yoga and Naturopathy, Music Therapy, Art-Based Interventions, Positive Psychology, Community Mental Health |
| IKM699 | M.Tech. Project Part-I | Project | 6 | Comprehensive Literature Review, Defining Research Objectives, Methodology Development, Pilot Study and Data Collection, Preliminary Results and Analysis |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IKM698 | M.Tech. Project Part-II | Project | 12 | Advanced Data Analysis, Thesis Writing and Documentation, Presentation of Findings, Experimental Validation, Thesis Defense Preparation |
| IKM6XX | Elective-IV | Elective | 3 | Advanced Ethics in IKSMHA, Policy and Advocacy in Mental Health, Technology for Mental Health, Traditional Healing Systems, Cross-Cultural Counseling |
