Is Tamil Nadu Launching Mental Health Support for Students Who Couldn't Clear NEET?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
As Tamil Nadu grapples with rising student suicides due to NEET pressures, the government is set to introduce a mental health support program through the 104 helpline. This initiative aims to provide crucial counseling for those struggling with exam failures, emphasizing the state’s commitment to student well-being. Discover how this program could transform lives.
Key Takeaways
- Dedicated mental health program to assist students struggling with exam pressures.
- Access through the 24/7 104 helpline for immediate support.
- Focus on addressing emotional distress linked to NEET and board exams.
- Government's commitment to prioritizing the mental health of students.
- Recognition of the need for equitable admission processes.
Chennai, June 16 (NationPress) To support students who are struggling with the pressures of examinations, the Tamil Nadu government is set to initiate a specialized mental health counselling program through the 104 helpline. This initiative specifically targets those who were unable to pass the NEET-UG and board exams.
This announcement was made by Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma Subramanian on Monday. The program comes as concerns rise regarding the mental health of students after significant entrance exams, with the minister recognizing the emotional turmoil many experience following disappointing results.
Official reports indicate that Tamil Nadu has experienced at least 22 suicides linked to NEET since its inception, highlighting the critical need for mental health support.
Minister Ma Subramanian emphasized that this scheme will provide prompt access to certified mental health professionals capable of offering guidance and counseling to affected students and their families. “Our government is dedicated to supporting students during these emotionally taxing times. Through the 104 helpline, we aim to ensure that no child feels alone or despairing due to academic challenges,” he stated.
This announcement follows the achievement of six students from Tamil Nadu who ranked among the top 100 nationally in the NEET UG 2025, illustrating both the competitive nature and emotional strain associated with the examination.
This year, 1,35,715 students from Tamil Nadu took the NEET, with 76,181 qualifying, which equates to an eligibility rate of approximately 56%. However, this reflects a slight decrease of 2.2 percentage points compared to the previous year's outcomes, based on data released by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on Saturday.
Minister Subramanian noted that the state has received 32,000 applications for MBBS admissions and assured that NEET-qualified candidates will be prioritized during the counseling phase.
“Although it is not feasible to provide medical seats for every eligible student due to limited availability, the government will ensure that deserving candidates are prioritized, in line with the regulations set forth by the Medical Counselling Committee and the Tamil Nadu Medical Council,” he remarked.
The minister reiterated the Tamil Nadu government’s ongoing opposition to NEET, citing the disproportionate pressure it places on rural and underprivileged students.
He advocated for a fair and inclusive admission process that takes into account the state board curriculum and socio-economic inequalities. The 104 helpline, available 24/7, is expected to play an essential role in providing timely mental health interventions that could potentially save lives.
Point of View
The introduction of mental health support in Tamil Nadu reflects a crucial step towards addressing the psychological impacts of academic pressures. With an alarming number of suicides linked to NEET, it’s vital that the government not only recognizes the problem but actively seeks to provide solutions. This initiative could serve as a model for other states grappling with similar challenges.
NationPress
16/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the mental health counselling program?
The program aims to provide psychological support and counseling to students struggling with exam pressures, particularly those who did not clear NEET-UG and board examinations.
How can students access the mental health support?
Students can reach out for assistance through the 104 helpline, which will connect them to qualified mental health professionals.
Why has Tamil Nadu initiated this program now?
The program was initiated in response to increasing mental health concerns and a disturbing number of student suicides linked to NEET exam pressures.
What has been the impact of NEET on students in Tamil Nadu?
NEET has created significant academic pressure, contributing to emotional distress and leading to tragic outcomes, including student suicides.
Will all eligible students receive medical seats?
While the government aims to prioritize NEET-qualified candidates, it cannot guarantee medical seats for all due to capacity constraints.
