Trigger Warning: Mentions Suicide
In the relentless pursuit of academic excellence in India, a silent crisis unfolds—a heart-wrenching epidemic of student suicides. Behind the scenes of prestigious institutions, in the shadow of soaring ambitions, there lies a stark and alarming truth. The numbers paint a somber picture: 98 students lost to suicide in higher educational institutions since 2018.
Among them, 39 from IITs, 25 from NITs, 25 from central universities, four from IIMs, three from IISERs, and two from IIITs. The data showed that 20 cases were reported in 2023, so far, 24 in 2022, seven each in 2021 and 2020, 19 in 2019, and 21 in 2018. And yet, this is just the tip of the iceberg (Hindustan Times). Let us now plunge into the depths of this harrowing issue, seeking to uncover the underlying causes, to understand the societal pressures, and to illuminate the path toward solutions.
The Toll of Academic Pressure:
The journey through India’s competitive education system is marked by unrelenting academic pressure. The quest for perfection, the obsession with exam scores, and the relentless pursuit of success often overshadow the mental well-being of students. Amidst this academic crucible, it’s crucial to acknowledge the harsh reality that exists. In a country where an estimated 57 million individuals are affected by depression, the toll on students is undeniable.
Within this crucible, the statistics reveal a staggering truth: 24.6% of students grapple with mild depression, 36.4% wrestle with its moderate variant, and a formidable 39.0% confront severe depression. However, amidst this formidable burden, a stark reality emerges – more than 80% of these young minds, despite their struggles, have not received any treatment. The cost of this unchecked battle is dire, for depression, closely entwined with the specter of suicide, demands early recognition. It is a clarion call to address not just academic ambitions but also the well-being of the minds that harbor them.
The Societal Expectations:
Societal expectations in India carry immense weight. Career choices, often perceived as life-defining decisions, are scrutinized from a young age. The burden of fulfilling these expectations can lead to unbearable stress. When we delve into the harrowing statistics, we find that this stress manifests tragically in the lives of students. In 2021 alone, a total of 5,693 students chose a path that led them to the abyss of suicide, an alarming and heart-wrenching testament to the devastating impact of these societal pressures on young minds (National Crime Records Bureau). Thus, the relentless pursuit of a coveted seat in a prestigious institution, promising a secure future, can become an insurmountable burden.
The Kota Conundrum:
Kota, Rajasthan, is a microcosm of the larger crisis. It annually welcomes thousands of students, each bearing dreams of conquering engineering and medical entrance exams. Yet, the pursuit of these dreams extracts a steep price—not just in terms of coaching fees, but in the emotional turmoil experienced by many.
In 2023, Kota recorded an unsettling number of student suicides—20 lives lost to despair including 3 among students preparing for competitive exams. And according to data available from the district administration, 15 students died by suicide last year, 18 in 2019, 20 in 2018, 7 in 2017, 17 in 2016, and 18 in 2015. The coaching industry, while providing valuable guidance, has faced criticism for its relentless approach. It is a paradox where students flock to the city for success but often find themselves on the precipice of mental anguish.
This blog tries to unveil an issue that can no longer be swept under the rug. The statistics are chilling, the stories heart-wrenching, but together, we can rewrite this narrative.
We must shatter the silence, destigmatize mental health struggles, and prioritize the well-being of our students. For every student who has battled despair, there should be a support system and an empathetic community. Success should be measured not just by exam scores but by the emotional and mental health of our students.
This is a call to action—a call to stand united in nurturing a healthier, more compassionate educational ecosystem. The silent crisis of student suicides in India’s premier educational institutions is a stark reminder that academic excellence should not come at the cost of precious lives. We owe it to our youth, and to countless others to create an educational environment where both academic achievement and emotional well-being are cherished and protected.