Kota Suicides: Committee's Advice Highlights Need for Study-Life Balance

In an effort to address the concerning rise in student suicides among NEET and JEE aspirants attending coaching classes in Kota, a high-level empowered committee has convened and put forth a series of recommendations. These suggestions aim to create a more student-friendly environment, reduce study hours, and incorporate enjoyable activities into students' routines.

Marathon Meeting Seeks Solutions:
The state-level committee, chaired by Bhawani Singh Detha, Principal Secretary of Higher and Technical Education, organized an extensive meeting involving experts and representatives from various sectors. This marathon meeting spanned five sessions over eight hours, during which stakeholders shared their insights on tackling this pressing issue.

Formation of the Empowered Committee:
The empowered committee was established in August, following the directive of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, as a response to the escalating suicides by students attending coaching classes in Kota. It marked its inaugural meeting with this extensive consultation.

Report Preparation and Government Submission:
Based on the valuable recommendations gathered from stakeholders, the state-level committee is tasked with compiling a comprehensive report. This report will be subsequently submitted to the state government for further consideration and action.

Challenges Regarding Coaching Institute Fees:
While concerns regarding the fees charged by coaching institutes were raised, it was clarified that government intervention in this matter was limited, as the fee arrangement primarily pertains to the agreement between students and institutes.

Health Surveys and Identifying At-Risk Students:
Concurrently, a state-level team is conducting health surveys across all coaching institutes in Kota. Approximately 80% of students have completed health forms as part of this process. These forms aid in identifying students with potential issues and directing them towards counseling services.

Focused Approach to Critical Cases:
For students displaying critical signs of distress or doubt, parents are being actively involved, and they are encouraged to visit Kota to support their children. In severe cases where students are deemed unfit during counseling, arrangements are made for them to return home with their parents.

Suspension of Regular Tests and Upcoming Changes:
Regular tests at coaching institutes have been temporarily suspended for two months. Authorities are considering modifications to the testing system, guided by parent recommendations, before resuming these assessments. Additionally, there is contemplation of introducing legislation to regulate coaching institutes, including provisions for imposing fines or other actions as necessary.

Distinguished Attendees at the Meeting:
The marathon meeting saw the participation of notable figures, including Ravi Surpur, the Sales Tax Commissioner and former District Collector of Kota in 2016, who played a significant role in addressing student suicides. Jitendra Kumar Soni, Managing Director of the National Health Mission, was also among the attendees, contributing to the collaborative effort to prevent further tragedies.