The Supreme Court-established National Task Force on student mental health is poised to focus on the role of competitive entrance exams, such as the NEET controversy, as contributing factors to student distress. The panel aims to highlight significant pressures stemming from coaching, frequent changes to curricula, and structural inequalities within the educational system. Sources familiar with the deliberations suggest these issues are central to a growing concern over student mental health.

Formed in March 2025, the task force is led by former Supreme Court judge Justice (Retd) S Ravindra Bhat. Its primary objective is to investigate the increasing rates of student suicides in higher education and recommend strategies for prevention. While the mandate focuses on higher education, it has emerged that many stressors affect students far earlier, during their school years and through the competitive examination process.

An interim report submitted on June 8 described the phenomenon of student suicides as a multifaceted issue, emphasising that it cannot be attributed solely to mental health disorders. Those associated with the task force assert that various factors, including academic pressure, financial challenges, and social isolation, compound stress for students over time.

Concerns Over Curriculum Changes and Coaching Culture

The panel’s findings reportedly indicate that frequent modifications to curricula, teaching methodologies, and education policies exacerbate anxiety among students. Officials involved with the task force noted that rapid shifts in school programmes and assessment patterns are often overwhelming for students, hindering their adaptation even before they enter higher educational institutions.

Compounding these issues is the recent cancellation of the NEET examination on May 3, which was followed by a re-conduct on June 21 due to allegations of a question paper leak. This disruption reportedly led to heightened anxiety and has been linked to an increase in student suicides. The panel has also considered the implications of the National Education Policy (NEP), which introduced significant reforms in curricula and educational approaches.

Statistics reviewed by the Supreme Court reflect that student suicides in India have doubled over the past decade, with 13,000 cases reported in 2022 alone. This alarming figure constitutes 7.6 per cent of all suicide cases in the country, indicating a serious public health concern. Although the task force’s primary focus doesn’t extend to entrance examinations or school education, it is crucial to note that stress from competitive exams permeates the entire educational system.

Issues in Higher Education Infrastructure and Support

The task force is likely to address challenges faced by students from non-English backgrounds, especially when they enter technical institutions where the medium of instruction is primarily English. Students have raised concerns about feelings of isolation and discrimination, alongside inadequate academic support, all of which hinder their educational experience.

The rapid expansion of higher education has not been matched by improvements in supportive infrastructure, which is another issue highlighted during the consultations. Reports indicate overcrowding on campuses, faculty shortages, and slow disbursement of scholarships as significant stress factors that affect students’ wellbeing.

The task force’s consultations have garnered feedback from a wide spectrum of stakeholders, including approximately 60,000 teachers and responses from nearly 16,000 colleges and universities. Engagement with around 2.5 lakh to 3 lakh parents and community members has also informed the panel’s recommendations. Field visits to around 40 institutions allowed them to interact directly with diverse student groups.

In conclusion, the task force’s final report is anticipated to advocate for reducing curricular burdens and shifting educational emphasis towards critical thinking rather than rote memorisation. It is expected to recommend greater student autonomy in choosing academic pursuits aligned with their personal interests, rather than conforming solely to external expectations. This holistic approach aims to enhance overall student wellness and reduce academic pressures.

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