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India's students face burnout as exam stress reaches crisis levels

India's relentless exam culture is breaking students. From sleepless nights to crippling anxiety, the toll of academic pressure demands urgent change—and some are finally listening.

The image shows a plot of the probability of failure and stress, with different colors representing...
The image shows a plot of the probability of failure and stress, with different colors representing the different levels of stress. The plot is displayed on a white background, with text accompanying it.

India's students face burnout as exam stress reaches crisis levels

India's education system is facing growing concerns over student burnout. Nearly one in five high school pupils rarely feels calm, motivated, or emotionally secure. With over 80% reporting exam-related stress, calls for change are getting louder.

The pressure on students has intensified in recent years. Extended study hours, relentless performance checks, and fierce competition are pushing stress levels higher. Many now show signs of burnout, including low motivation, poor sleep, and rising anxiety.

The culture of over-preparation is under increasing scrutiny. While no concrete measures by schools or EdTech firms have been recorded between 2023 and 2026, some in the coaching sector are shifting focus. A more holistic approach, blending academic goals with mental well-being, is slowly taking shape. Neeraj Kansal, CEO of Crack Academy, supports structured, balanced preparation. He argues that resilience and well-being should matter as much as results. Industry experts also stress the need for parents and teachers to set realistic expectations and foster open conversations. The conversation around exams is evolving. Instead of fixating solely on outcomes, there's a push for sustainable models that prioritise long-term mental health.

Mental health is poised to reshape India's education landscape. As stress and burnout persist, the demand for student-centric reforms grows. The shift towards balance and resilience could redefine how learning is structured in the years ahead.

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