Kota, famous as a coaching hub in the country, is currently going through a serious crisis. The number of students in the city, famous for preparing for engineering and medical competitive examinations, has fallen sharply, which is directly affecting the local economy.

Hundreds of PG hostels and buildings are lying vacant in various areas of Kota, especially Coral Park. There has been a huge increase in the number of rent and sale boards. The buildings which used to be bustling with students earlier, are now deserted. This has become a major concern for investors and developers. In the financial year 2023-24, 1,75,351 students came to Kota for coaching, while in 2024-25 this number has come down to 1,22,616. This shows a decline of about 30 percent.

There are about 4500 PG hostels in Kota, whose occupancy was earlier 85-100 percent, which has now fallen to 40-60 percent. Similarly, more than 1500 messes and food shops have also been badly affected. Earlier, where the monthly income of PG owners was up to Rs 3 lakh, it is now limited to Rs 30,000. Fruit and street vendors have also been affected by this.

Incidents of student suicide in Kota have also become a major reason for the decline. In 2023, 27 students committed suicide, while in 2024 this number was 16. So far in 2025, 6 students have committed suicide. The pressure of parental expectations and tough competition is increasing on the students, due to which they are becoming victims of mental stress. The opening of coaching institutes in other parts of the country has also affected the coaching industry of Kota. Due to increasing availability of quality coaching in Patna, Sikar, Jhunjhunu and other cities, students are now preferring to study there by staying there.