In a significant response to the alarming rise in student suicides linked to academic pressure, a parliamentary standing committee has launched a major review of India's rapidly expanding coaching centre industry. This decisive move comes amid ongoing tragedy in cities like Kota, renowned as the nation's coaching capital, where multiple young students have ended their lives due to extreme stress.
Wide-Ranging Parliamentary Probe
According to a recent Lok Sabha bulletin, the department-related committee on education, women, children, youth and sports will conduct a thorough examination of the proliferation of coaching institutes that prepare students for competitive examinations. The panel will scrutinize existing legislation governing these institutions and assess government initiatives to strengthen mental health support systems, particularly for those in higher education.
The committee's investigation represents one of the most comprehensive parliamentary responses to the growing crisis in competitive education. The review will extend beyond immediate concerns about coaching centres to address broader educational challenges facing the nation.
Technology and Educational Reforms Under Scanner
In addition to the coaching centre crackdown, the parliamentary panel will study the implications of Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies within the education sector. This includes analysing their influence on learning processes and student well-being, marking a forward-looking approach to educational policy-making.
The committee has also decided to review the implementation of PM Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) during the 2025-26 period. This flagship program aimed at transforming school education will come under detailed parliamentary scrutiny to assess its progress and effectiveness.
Comprehensive Educational Agenda
The panel's wide-ranging agenda for the year includes multiple critical educational issues. Committee members will examine current practices and policies concerning school closures while reviewing the functioning and performance of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT).
Further priorities include assessing measures to promote education for linguistic and religious minorities and seeking updates on the ministry's efforts to establish the Higher Education Commission of India, which aims to overhaul the regulatory framework for higher education in the country.
This multi-faceted parliamentary initiative signals a growing recognition at the highest levels of government that India's competitive education environment requires urgent reform and stronger safeguards for student mental health.
