Kota is a city in Rajasthan, India, where many students go to prepare for NEET/JEE exams. But it is also known as the “suicide capital” of India, because of the high number of students who take their own lives there. This term is shocking and saddening, but it does not tell the whole story of what causes these tragic deaths. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind Kota’s suicide problem.
Why is Kota Called the “Suicide Capital”?
Exam Pressure and the Coaching Culture
Kota is a famous place for students who want to get into top colleges for engineering or medicine. Every year, more than 200,000 students come here to join coaching classes that prepare them for tough exams like JEE and NEET.
But this is not an easy journey. The students have to work very hard, study for long hours, and face a lot of competition. They also have to deal with the stress of getting good marks, ranking high, and meeting the expectations of their parents and teachers.
Sometimes, this stress can become too much to handle. It can make the students feel anxious, depressed, or hopeless. They may lose interest in their studies or in life itself.
The coaching centers are usually partly responsible for creating this stress. They have a very strict schedule, a lot of tests, and a focus on rankings, making them not care much about the mental health of the students.
The students also don’t have many ways to cope with the stress. They don’t have time for hobbies, sports, or fun activities, nor do they have friends or counselors to talk to. It is normal that they feel lonely and isolated in a crowded city.
This is a very unhealthy and harmful situation for the students. They need more support, guidance, and care from their families, teachers, and society.
Parental Expectations and Social Stigma
But let us not pin all the blame on institutions, as most of the pressure actually comes from the ever-hopeful parents. Parental expectations often play a significant role in their child’s life.
Many parents view success in these exams as a stepping stone to a secure and prosperous future, leading them to put immense pressure on their children. This, on top of the social stigma surrounding failure, can leave students feeling isolated and with no escape route, pushing some towards desperate actions like self-harm or even suicide.
Beyond the Label Of Suicide Capital
While the label “suicide capital” draws immediate attention to the issue, it’s crucial to remember that Kota is not solely a city of suicides.
It is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and numerous success stories. Furthermore, attributing the entire issue to the coaching institutes or Kota itself ignores the broader societal and individual elements donating to the national phenomenon of student suicides.
So, let us not drag Kota, the city, for the sad outcomes and look into our education system.
What must be done to stop the suicide rate in Kota?
Mental Health Awareness and Support Systems
The emphasis should shift towards addressing the root causes of student stress and creating strong mental health support systems. The steps that we must take are,
- Encouraging mental health awareness and education among students, parents, teachers, etc.
- Integrating mental health counselling and support services within coaching institutions and educational establishments just like we do at Learning Ant.
- Starting open communication and creating safe spaces for students. They should be able to express their anxieties and seek help without fear of critique.
- Promoting healthy coping mechanisms such as stress management techniques, physical activity, and pursuing hobbies outside academics.
Parental Guidance
Parents need to shift their perspectives from solely focusing on academic achievements to giving importance to their children’s well-being. They should recognize individual strengths, encourage open communication, and offer unconditional support for a healthy and supportive environment for their children.
Additionally, a shift in societal attitudes towards mental health is necessary. The bad rep about seeking help for mental health issues needs to be addressed. We must create a culture of sympathy and compassion.
Some Facts About Kota
If your knowledge about the city stems from the famous web series Kota Factory or from the suicide rates in the city, you need to know about some great and interesting facts about Kota.
- Kota is commonly known as the “Coaching Capital of India,” boasting over 40 coaching institutes that specialize in preparing students for national-level competitive exams.
- The city’s fame stems from its focus on exams like IIT JEE and NEET-UG, drawing more than 150,000 students annually from all corners of the country.
- The coaching industry in Kota contributes significantly to the city’s economy, with an annual turnover reaching around ₹1500 crore.
- Students typically reside in hostels and PGs near coaching centres for 2–3 years, enrolling in schools offering “dummy schooling” to boost exam preparation without regular attendance.
- Kota’s coaching legacy began in 1985 with Vinod Kumar Bansal founding Bansal Classes, which played a major role in establishing Kota as an educational hub.
- The city gained further recognition with the release of “Kota Factory,” a web series by The Viral Fever, offering insights into the lives of students preparing for exams in Kota.
- In response to mental health challenges, coaching centres in Kota have appointed counsellors and organized recreational activities to support students emotionally and psychologically.
Additional Facts
- Kota is located along the eastern bank of the Chambal River, donating to its scenic landscapes.
- Known for its rich history, Kota was once a part of the Rajput kingdom of Bundi. The city has historical structures, including the Kota Fort and the Jag Mandir, reflecting its cultural heritage.
- Beyond education, Kota has a notable industrial presence, particularly in the chemical sector.
Conclusion
The issue of student suicides in Kota is a complex one. While the term “suicide capital” highlights the alarming number of cases, it’s essential to avoid blame games.
Hence, let us all collectively work towards creating a future where student potential is nurtured, and their well-being is prioritized.
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