A new report has highlighted a disturbing trend in student suicides in India, showing an alarming annual increase that outpaces both population growth and overall suicide rates. Released at the Annual IC3 Conference and Expo 2024, the report, titled "Student Suicides: An Epidemic Sweeping India," draws on data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB).

The report reveals that while overall suicide rates have risen by 2 percent annually, student suicides have surged by 4 percent each year. This increase is notable despite potential underreporting of these cases. Over the past two decades, student suicides have grown at a rate double the national average, with a 4 percent annual increase. In 2022, male students accounted for 53 percent of all student suicides. Between 2021 and 2022, male student suicides decreased by 6 percent, while female student suicides rose by 7 percent.

The report also highlights that student suicides have outpaced both the growth rate of the student population and overall suicide trends. From 2012 to 2022, the student population decreased slightly from 582 million to 581 million, while student suicides more than doubled from 6,654 to 13,044.

Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh are identified as the states with the highest number of student suicides, collectively accounting for a third of the total. Southern states and union territories contribute 29 percent of these cases, and Rajasthan ranks 10th, reflecting the intense pressure in academic environments such as coaching hubs in Kota.

The report points out that the actual number of student suicides is likely higher than reported due to underreporting. Factors contributing to this include social stigma and the criminalization of attempted and assisted suicides under Section 309 of the Indian Penal Code, despite the decriminalization for those with mental illness under the 2017 Mental Healthcare Act.

Ganesh Kohli, Founder of the IC3 Movement, emphasized the urgent need to address mental health issues within educational institutions. He advocates for a shift in focus from competitive pressures to fostering student well-being and competencies. Kohli calls for the establishment of comprehensive career and college counseling systems within schools to better support students and prevent suicides.

The report also notes a dramatic increase in student suicides over the past decade, with male suicides rising by 50 percent and female suicides by 61 percent. Both genders have experienced an average annual increase of 5 percent in recent years, underscoring the need for enhanced counseling infrastructure and a deeper understanding of student needs and aspirations.