BIT Mesra received a Rs 2.4 crore government grant Tuesday. The funding supports a multi-institutional study on climate change. It will examine how environmental and economic factors impact mental health across India.
The research project is led by BIT Mesra. Collaborators include Ranchi Institute of Neuro-Psychiatry and Allied Sciences (RINPAS). BIT Noida and National Institutes of Technology (NIT) Sikkim and Calicut also participate.
Study Details
The project combines artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and geospatial science. It aims to develop predictive tools. These tools will aid public health planning and early intervention. The research will generate region-specific data. This data will inform public health strategies.
Methodology and Leadership
Dr. Shamama Anwar, assistant professor in BIT Mesra’s computer science engineering department, will lead the study. She is the principal investigator. The team will use structured surveys. They will also deploy wearable health devices and portable environmental sensors.
Advanced data analytics will investigate links. These links are between temperature changes, air quality, and humidity. They will also examine socioeconomic stress indicators and mental health outcomes. Dr. Anwar stated this approach will help understand complex relationships.
Predictive Models and Tools
The team will use machine learning. This will create spatio-temporal techniques. AI/ML-based predictive models will emerge. These models can detect trends. They will forecast mental health stress hotspots. These hotspots are linked to climate exposure.
Dr. Kirti Avishek, associate professor at BIT Mesra’s remote sensing department, highlighted a key outcome. A web-based GIS decision-support dashboard will be created. This dashboard is for policymakers and public health authorities.
Public Health Impact
The platform will allow authorities to visualize regional trends. It will support scenario-based planning. This planning focuses on climate-sensitive mental health interventions. The study aims to provide actionable insights for public well-being.