Special Lecture on POSH Act and Mental Health at PGIDS, Rohtak

Rohtak, May 12, 2026: The Post Graduate Institute of Dental Sciences (PGIDS), Rohtak, organized special lectures covering two key topics: the POSH Act (Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace) under the aegis of the Internal Complaints Committee, and Mental Health and Stress Management, organized by the Anti-Ragging Committee.
The keynote speaker, Dr. Preeti Singh, Senior Professor at the Institute of Mental Health, provided insights into the subject of sexual harassment at the workplace. She familiarized the audience with the Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act, 2013; the formation of the Internal Complaints Committee; the scope of its powers; and the procedure for a victim to file a complaint.
She emphasized that creating a safe, dignified, and fear-free environment for women in every institution is the collective responsibility of both the management and all employees. She noted that the POSH Act is not merely a legal provision but serves as a medium to sensitize the workplace culture.
In the second session—a lecture on Mental Health and Stress Management was organized by the Anti-Ragging Committee. Speaker Dr. Purushottam discussed stress management in detail. He elaborated on the crucial roles played by yoga, meditation, the identification and management of dysfunctional thoughts, a healthy diet, and a balanced lifestyle. He observed that in today's competitive and fast-paced lifestyle, stress has become a common occurrence. He added that stress can be controlled to a significant extent through regular practice of yoga and Pranayama, positive thinking, and effective time management.
Meanwhile, Dr. Bhupendra Singh highlighted the early symptoms of stress, explaining that persistent fatigue, irritability, lack of sleep, diminished concentration, and loss of appetite can be indicators of mental stress. He warned that ignoring these symptoms could lead to depression and other physical ailments; therefore, seeking timely counseling and expert advice is essential.
Presiding over the event, Dr. Manu Rathi, Principal of the Dental College, remarked that today, students, faculty, and staff members alike are all grappling with stress at some level. She stated that awareness of the POSH Act is mandatory for every employee to ensure a safe workplace. Furthermore, it is essential to foster open discussions regarding mental health. Dr. Bhavna expressed her gratitude.
Present on the occasion were members of the Internal Complaints Committee and the Anti-Ragging Committee, Heads of Departments, faculty members, PG students, and paramedical staff.