NEW DELHI: Against the backdrop of growing concern over student suicides linked to academic pressure, a parliamentary standing committee has initiated a comprehensive review of the rapid expansion of coaching centres and the social issues emerging from the highly competitive education environment. The move comes as cities like Kota – known as the “coaching capital of India” – continue to report multiple cases of students ending their lives due to stress , reports Manash Gohain.The department-related committee on education, women, children, youth and sports will examine the proliferation of coaching institutes for competitive examinations and existing legislation governing them, according to a recent Lok Sabha bulletin. The panel will also look into government efforts to strengthen mental health support systems for students, especially those pursuing higher education.The parliamentary panel will also study the implications of AI and emerging technologies in the education space, including their influence on learning processes and student well-being. In addition, it has decided to review the implementation of PM Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) during 2025-26.In a wide-ranging agenda for the year, the committee will examine current practices and policies on school closures; review the functioning and performance of the National Council of Educational Research and Training; and assess measures to promote education for linguistic and religious minorities.One of the key agenda points will be to seek updates on the ministry’s efforts to establish the Higher Education Commission of India.
