In a first, IIT-Kgp sets up ‘recharge zones’ to help students tackle placement stress
Times of India | 3 December 2025
Kolkata: The placement season at IIT Kharagpur started on Monday with the administration opening "recharge zones" for the first time to help job aspirants tackle mental stress resulting from the fiercely competitive recruitment process.
The 24x7 zones, set up in Nalanda Complex of the institute, have been conceptualised as judgment-free, calming spaces where students can unwind, reset and reconnect with themselves while vying for top jobs.
The institute has witnessed five student suicides in the past nine months. An external committee set up to probe the deaths interacted with students in July and more than 80% of them spoke about the intense pressure on them to secure good internships and jobs.
"The placement process is inherently rigorous," IIT director Suman Chakraborty said. "As we mark our 75th year, we are prioritising institutional support mechanisms. These zones are intended to provide a necessary pause for students, ensuring they rejuvenate themselves and approach opportunities with clarity and balance."
IIT Kharagpur becomes the first IIT to open such recharge zones for students, the director said.
Each zone has been carefully curated to offer a variety of self-guided activities rooted in proven wellness practices. The Creative Expression Corner has been designed to encourage students to express emotions freely through art and reflective writings.
"In the Creative Expression Corner, one can doodle or colour to translate emotions visually. Students can also write a message or letter of encouragement to one's future self. It is a therapeutic exercise," said an official.
In the Mindful Relaxation Zone, students can indulge in quiet reflection and mindful practices while listening to de-stressing music. They can scan QR codes for guided meditation.
"The Grounding & Movement Zone has been created to help reduce physical and emotional stress. There are stress-relief tools like fidget toys, stress balls and bubble sheets, and low-effort activity tables featuring puzzles and jenga (a board game). There are also table tennis boards," said a member of the students' welfare committee.
The Career Development Centre, under the leadership of Prof Sanjay Kumar Gupta, emphasised that the initiative aligns with the institute's broader goal of holistic student support.
A fourth-year student appearing in placement interviews said, "The placement process is stressful and many face breakdowns and panic attacks. Previously, there was no space where students could sit to calm themselves. These zones, with cosy seating, plants, posters with self-care quotes and creative materials, offer a comforting environment to the students."