Kota, Rajasthan, known as the coaching hub for IIT-JEE aspirants, has witnessed a significant 50% decline in student suicides in 2024 compared to the previous year. However, despite this encouraging statistic, urgent action is still needed to address the underlying pressures students face.
“In comparison to last year, the suicide rate among coaching students has decreased by 50% this year, which is a significant figure in terms of the efforts yielding results. We expect this trend to continue in the future,” Kota Collector Ravindra Goswami told PTI in a brief interview.
Kota witnessed 17 cases of suicides by coaching students in 2024, compared to 26 such cases in 2023, as per reports.
Goswami attributed this improvement to strict guidelines enforced by the district administration for coaching institutes and hostels.
Additionally, initiatives such as gate-keeper training for hostel wardens, the launch of SOS Help services, and regular interactive sessions with students through events like ‘Dinner with Collector’ and ‘Samwad’ have helped foster a safer environment. Goswami personally interacted with over 25,000 students this year to address their concerns.
While the decline in suicides is a positive sign, Goswami acknowledged that 16 students still lost their lives in 2024, underscoring the immense pressure that continues to burden aspiring students. The competitive environment in Kota, coupled with high academic expectations, makes many students feel overwhelmed by the fear of failure.
To address the crisis, experts call for a more holistic approach, including regular mental health check-ups, counselling, and stress management workshops for students.
A balanced educational system that prioritises student well-being over academic success is also crucial. Collaboration between district authorities, coaching centers, and parents is vital in providing emotional and psychological support to students.
In response to these concerns, the district administration has also launched ‘Kota Cares,’ a program that emphasises student safety and well-being. It includes inviting Kota alumni to interact with current students and reassure them that the city is working toward a healthier and more supportive environment.
Despite the progress, the number of students in Kota has dropped significantly in 2024, from 2.5 lakh to approximately 85,000-1 lakh, leading to a sharp decline in revenues for coaching centers. Goswami also reassured parents in a New Year letter, reaffirming the city’s commitment to the safety and overall development of students.
While these efforts are commendable, the need for continued vigilance and enhanced support systems remains critical in ensuring that Kota becomes a safe and supportive environment for all students.
(With agency inputs)
