A NATION HELD HOSTAGE: INDIA'S EXAM FACTORY, A TALENT TRAP

INDIA, ONCE A BEACON of holistic learning, is now trapped in a highstakes exam factory.

- Vikas Singh

The dream of a brighter future has been distorted into an obsessive pursuit of cracking competitive exams. This relentless focus on examinations has spawned a burgeoning coaching industry, reshaping the nation’s educational landscape.

The consequences of this phenomenon extend far beyond academic performance, impacting the overall well-being of the youth and the nation’s progress.

The Psychological Toll, the Financial Strain : The relentless pursuit of success in exams like JEE, NEET, CAT and UPSC has severe psychological consequences. The incessant pressure to outperform peers, coupled with the pervasive fear of failure, has cultivated a toxic environment of anxiety and despair among the youth. This mental health crisis, marked by depression and even suicidal ideation, is a stark consequence of the examobsessed culture. Moreover, the intense focus on exams often comes at the expense of extracurricular activities, hindering holistic development and social skills.

The UPSC exam, often seen as the pinnacle of civil service aspirations, epitomises the hyper-competitive nature of the system. With a success rate below 0.2 per cent, the process is akin to a high-stakes gamble. Aspirants often dedicate five to fifteen years of their lives, pouring in substantial time, money, and emotional resources. The gruelling preparation for these exams, often spanning five to fifteen years, not only postpones workforce entry but also diverts precious years from skill acquisition, entrepreneurship, and innovation.