The Kota district administration has revealed a promising development this year: a remarkable 50% decline in student suicides in 2024 compared to 2023. The Rajasthan city, a hub for aspirants preparing for the IIT-JEE and other competitive exams, has long been under scrutiny due to the mental health challenges faced by students. The administration credits this significant improvement to a combination of innovative programs, strict regulations, and a focus on student well-being.

Kota Suicide epidemic

Kota witnessed 17 suicides among coaching students in 2024, a sharp decline from the 26 cases reported in 2023. Kota Collector Ravindra Goswami shared his optimism, stating, “In comparison to last year, the suicide rate among coaching students has decreased by 50%. This is a significant achievement, and we hope this trend continues in the future.”

Despite this decline, challenges remain. Stakeholders in the coaching industry report declining student enrollment and financial losses, but the administration’s focus remains steadfast on ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for students.

Key Measures Driving the Change

The district administration attributes the decline in suicides to several impactful measures:

Implementation of WHO-Based Gatekeeper Training: Hostel wardens and staff underwent gatekeeper training based on WHO guidelines, equipping them to identify and address early signs of mental distress among students.

SOS Help Services: Easily accessible emergency support services were introduced, providing students with immediate assistance during crises.

Interactive Initiatives like ‘Dinner with Collector’ and ‘Samwad’: Ravindra Goswami personally engaged with over 25,000 coaching students through these initiatives, addressing their concerns and fostering a sense of connection with the administration.

Safety Measures for Women: The deployment of the Kalika Squad ensured women’s safety and addressed the unique challenges faced by female students in the city.

While the decline in student suicides is a positive development, it has coincided with a slowdown in the coaching industry. The number of students enrolling in Kota this year dropped to 85,000–1,00,000 from the usual 2,00,000–2,50,000, resulting in a steep decline in revenues. Annual earnings have plummeted from an estimated ₹6,500-7,000 crore to ₹3,500 crore, as per industry experts.

This drop is attributed to negative publicity, stricter regulations, and the expansion of coaching institutes to other cities. Nonetheless, the administration remains committed to balancing business interests with student well-being. To further enhance the city’s appeal as a nurturing educational hub, the district administration launched ‘Kota Cares,’ a comprehensive program designed to address the safety and well-being of coaching students.

Key highlights of the program include: Engagement with Alumni where the Former students of Kota, who have gone on to achieve success in various fields, are invited to share their experiences and inspire current aspirants. The city has also upgraded its infrastructure and support systems to provide students with a more conducive learning environment.

As part of its rebranding efforts, Kota recently hosted the three-day Kota Mahotsav, which concluded on a high note. This festival aimed to showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage while offering students and residents an opportunity for recreation. The administration believes such events play a pivotal role in reducing stress among students while promoting Kota as a tourist destination.

Understanding the vital role parents play in a student’s life, Collector Ravindra Goswami sent New Year greetings to the families of coaching students. His message reaffirmed Kota’s commitment to ensuring the safety, overall development, and mental well-being of their children.

“I assure you that Kota is fully committed to the overall development and safety of students,” Goswami stated, emphasizing the city’s dedication to fostering a supportive environment for aspirants.

Kota’s multi-pronged approach to addressing student suicides demonstrates a significant shift in priorities. By focusing on mental health, enforcing strict regulations, and fostering a supportive community, the city is gradually transforming its image. While challenges remain, the efforts of the administration and the community offer hope that Kota can continue to thrive as both an educational and cultural hub.