17-year-old NEET aspirant Hrishit Kumar Agrawal from Bihar has died by suicide in Kota, Rajasthan. His body was discovered hanging from a ceiling fan in his rented accommodation, adding to the growing concern over student suicides in this educational hub.
Agrawal had come to Kota to prepare for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) at a renowned coaching institute. This tragic incident marks the 12th suspected suicide by a coaching student in Kota since January 2024. The increasing number of such cases underscores the intense pressure and stress students face in Kota's highly competitive coaching environment.
Last year, Kota witnessed 26 student suicides, a grim statistic that highlights the urgent need for robust support systems and mental health initiatives for these young minds. The recurrence of these tragedies has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting urgent calls for increased awareness, intervention, and preventive measures.
The competitive atmosphere in Kota, known for its premier coaching institutes, places enormous academic pressure on students aspiring to crack exams like NEET and JEE. The psychological toll of this pressure often goes unnoticed until it manifests in such devastating ways. Mental health professionals and educators advocate for comprehensive mental health support, including counselling services and stress management programs, to help students cope with the demanding environment.
This incident has reignited discussions about the critical need for reforms in the coaching system to ensure the well-being of students. Stakeholders, including educational institutions, government bodies, and mental health experts, are urged to collaborate to develop and implement effective strategies to prevent such tragedies.
The local administration and coaching centres are being called upon to prioritize student welfare by creating a more supportive and less stressful environment. Some of the suggested steps include regular mental health check-ups, establishing helplines, and integrating mental health education into the curriculum.
As the community mourns the loss of another young life, the focus is shifting towards actionable solutions to safeguard the mental health of students. The tragic death of Hrishit Kumar Agrawal serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for systemic changes and the importance of fostering a supportive educational environment.