A tragic incident has once again shaken India’s premier coaching hub, Kota. A 24-year-old NEET aspirant from Odisha was found dead in his hostel room, sparking concern among thousands of students and parents who send their children to Rajasthan’s education capital for competitive exam preparation.
The deceased, identified as Roshan Kumar Patro from Abhayapur village in Ganjam district, Odisha, had been living in Kota for over a year. He was preparing for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) at one of the reputed coaching institutes in Rajiv Gandhi Nagar. According to police, Roshan was discovered lying on his bed with vomit near his mouth after he failed to show up for lunch.
The shocking discovery has once again highlighted the growing mental-health crisis in India’s coaching cities.
Police Begin Investigation in Kota
The Jawahar Nagar Police in Kota have started an investigation to determine the cause of death. A post-mortem examination has been ordered, and a Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team has collected samples from the hostel room. Officers stated that the reason for death remains unclear until the autopsy report is finalized.
The body has been kept in the MBS Hospital mortuary, and authorities from Odisha have been informed for assistance. The full story was first reported by Odisha TV, which noted that Roshan’s cousin, who lived in the same building, raised the alarm when repeated knocks went unanswered.
Family Demands Clarity and Transparency
Roshan’s father and uncle reached Kota soon after receiving the news. According to his father, Roshan had spoken to the family a few days earlier and seemed positive about his studies. He firmly denied the possibility of suicide, claiming, “My son would never take such a step.”
The grieving family has demanded a transparent investigation and raised questions about hostel safety, medical facilities, and the pressure students face in Kota. Their plea reflects a broader concern among parents whose children travel hundreds of kilometres away to prepare for exams like NEET and JEE.
Kota’s Growing Student Pressure
Kota is home to over 2 lakh students each year, many of whom come from states like Odisha, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh to pursue dreams of becoming doctors or engineers. However, the increasing academic competition and isolation from family often lead to extreme stress.
In 2024 alone, the city recorded more than 30 student deaths, prompting intervention by the Supreme Court and the Rajasthan government. Authorities have since introduced counselling hotlines, hostel inspections, and stress-management sessions. Still, the rising number of cases shows the urgent need for a stronger support system for students.
The Challenge of NEET Exam Preparation
The NEET exam is one of the toughest medical entrance tests in India, demanding long hours of study and mental resilience. Students often deal with performance anxiety, fear of failure, and homesickness, especially when they are far from their families.
Experts emphasize that proper mentorship, time management, and balanced routines can help reduce burnout. Platforms like MBBS Advisor have been helping NEET aspirants and parents with medical admission guidance, counselling support, and MBBS abroad opportunities. By offering verified information and step-by-step advice, MBBS Advisor aims to make the NEET journey less stressful and more organized for students across India.
A Wake-Up Call for Reform
Roshan’s death is not just a personal tragedy but a reminder that the system must evolve. Coaching institutes, hostel owners, and policymakers need to work together to create a student-friendly environment that prioritizes mental health along with academic performance.
Counselling sessions, open communication, and regular health monitoring in hostels should be made mandatory. Parents, too, must stay in regular touch with their children, ensuring that emotional support is always available, no matter the distance.
Conclusion
The case of the NEET aspirant from Odisha found dead in Kota is yet another wake-up call about the hidden pressures young students face in the pursuit of their dreams. While the investigation continues, it is vital for the education ecosystem to focus not just on producing top rankers but on nurturing emotionally healthy individuals.
As India continues to produce millions of medical aspirants each year, initiatives like MBBS Advisor can play a key role in guiding students responsibly—helping them chase their goals with confidence, awareness, and balance. The tragic story reported by Odisha TV must serve as a reminder that success should never come at the cost of well-being.
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