Advancing Mental Health and Sustainable Development
About Me
Dr. K. Poddar is a trailblazing cognitive psychitect, whose work aligns deeply with UNICEF’s mission of child welfare and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). As the Head of the Department and Assistant Professor of Psychology at the Siliguri Institute of Technology and the Director of the KVRG Development Pvt. Ltd. ~ A think Tank, Dr. Poddar is dedicated to creating a world where mental health and societal well-being are prioritized as core elements of sustainable development.
Dr. Poddar’s recent initiatives bridge the gap between mental health advocacy and sustainable societal practices. Through community-driven projects like Jaagrukta and SMILE, they have championed inclusive education (UNSDG 4), gender equality (UNSDG 5), and reduced inequalities (UNSDG 10). Their collaborations with grassroots organizations reflect a commitment to UNICEF’s goals of fostering safe, equitable, and supportive environments for children and youth.
By combining interdisciplinary research, innovative behavioral interventions, and capacity-building workshops, Dr. Poddar addresses the psychosocial challenges faced by marginalized communities. Their work underscores the importance of mental health in achieving holistic development, echoing UNSDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and UNSDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).
A passionate advocate for sustainable solutions, Dr. Poddar’s work not only empowers individuals but also inspires systemic change, ensuring that no one is left behind on the path to a healthier and more equitable future.
“As a Cognitive Psychitect, I specialize in integrating cognitive psychology with criminology and education to create impactful frameworks that address behavioral and psychological challenges. With a vision of a Zero Suicide World, I focus on developing solutions that improve mental health, reduce criminal behavior, and promote educational outcomes. My work spans academia, consulting, and applied research to create evidence-based interventions for systemic change.”
“With my expertise as a Cognitive Psychitect, I offer consulting services focused on designing evidence-based interventions and strategies for criminology, education, and mental health organizations. Guided by my vision of a Zero Suicide World, I work with institutions to create programs that address behavioral challenges, foster positive change, and improve mental well-being.”
Alma Mater
Ecosoc collaboration with WHPRC : Honary doctorate in Applied Psychology
University of Queensland, Australia : PhD
The School of Positive Psychology : Professional Diploma in Psychotherapy
Centre of Excellence : PG Dip in Cognitive Behavioural Science
Institute of Counsellor Training Research and Consultancy : PG Dip Guidance & Counseling
University of Kalyani : Masters of Arts (H) in Education
University of Kalyani : Bachelors of Arts (H) in Education
Major Projects
MSA Diva Project (Sep 2011 – Sep 2012):
This project aimed to support marginalized communities by implementing initiatives like sensitization, capacity building, advocacy, and community systems strengthening. The project’s innovative models, developed in collaboration with State AIDS Control Societies, resulted in policy-level changes and significant improvements in public health practices.
Strengthening Social Accountability Project (March 2014 – Dec 2014):
Aimed at enhancing accountability in public service delivery, this project worked to ensure access to high-quality healthcare, education, clean water, and other essential services. It empowered communities to hold service providers accountable, fostering transparency and efficiency in governance.
Sustainable Development of Dalits and Adivasis (Feb 2016 – April 2018):
Designed to empower Dalits and Adivasis with income-generating skills, this project enhanced their socio-economic status sustainably. It provided vocational training and employment opportunities, bridging gaps in livelihood and contributing to community well-being.
Workplace Equality Program (July 2013 – Feb 2014):
Focused on promoting equality for Women, Dalits, Special Disability, and LGBTQ individuals in workplaces, this program developed and implemented policies to create discrimination-free environments. It emphasized practical applications of inclusivity from factory floors to boardrooms, leading to sustainable cultural shifts.
Jaagrukta: The Awareness Alarm (Jan 2015 – Jan 2016):
This initiative focused on engaging marginalized youth to address identity-based discrimination and violence. By fostering a sense of collective identity and encouraging self-exploration, the project promoted leadership and advocacy, driving social change at grassroots levels.
Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood & Enterprise (SMILE) (Aug 2021 – June 2022):
comprehensive scheme addressing rehabilitation, medical care, counseling, education, skill development, and economic empowerment. SMILE focused on integrating marginalized individuals into mainstream society by fostering self-reliance and economic stability.
Other Projects
Sankalp: Capacity Building Training Programmes (June 2018 – Sep 2019):
Conducted extensive training for CBOs, focusing on organizational policy development, financial management, and community-level monitoring. These programs equipped stakeholders with tools to manage and sustain community-driven initiatives effectively.
Assistant Professor of Educational and Behavioral Psychology (Aug 2023 – June 2024):
Delivered lectures, mentored students, and contributed to curriculum development at the Centre for Innovative Studies, NBU Campus, fostering academic excellence.
Research Project (Oct 2017 – July 2023):
Collaborated with Université de Montréal to conduct a comparative study on the psychosocial status of textile workers. The research highlighted significant findings on livelihood and mental health, influencing policy and workplace interventions.
Head of Department & Assistant Professor, Psychology (June 2024 – Present):
Currently leading academic programs and research at Siliguri Institute of Technology. Responsibilities include faculty development, student mentoring, and providing behavioral consultations to enhance mental health and well-being.
Achievements
‘Best Paper Award’ – MoES Sponsored Three Days International Conference, University of North Bengal, 2024
Best SDG Specialist 2019 (UN Consulate)
Youth Motivational Speaker 2019 (ICCR Kolkata)
ISISR 2019 (Rituporno Smriti Award)
Best Health Quality Advisor 2014 (NFI)
Youth Community Developer 2013 (North-Eastern Board)
Best Creative Writer 2013 – State Level (National Electoral Commission)
Best Speaker 2012 – State Level (Youth Parliament)