Kota, India: An 18-year-old JEE aspirant, Vivek Kumar, committed suicide by jumping from the sixth floor of his hostel in Kota. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, has once again brought to light the immense pressure faced by students preparing for competitive exams in the city.
Kota, often referred to as the “coaching capital of India,” has been grappling with a disturbing trend of student suicides. This year alone, marks the 16th such incident, highlighting the urgent need for mental health support and stress management strategies for students.
Vivek Kumar, hailing from Annupur, Madhya Pradesh, had been residing in a hostel in Rajiv Gandhi Nagar, Kota. While the exact reasons behind his extreme step remain unclear, the police are investigating the circumstances, including the possibility of tampering with the safety net on his balcony.
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The intense competition and academic pressure associated with preparing for highly competitive exams like the JEE can take a significant toll on students’ mental health. Long hours of study, unrealistic expectations, and fear of failure can lead to anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.