Parliamentary panel to examine mushrooming coaching centers
What's the story
Taking into cognizance the alarming rise in suicide cases among students, a parliamentary committee will review the "proliferation" of coaching centers in India, particularly their impact on students preparing for competitive exams. The Standing Committee on Education, Women, Children, Youth, and Sports will also look into social issues related to these centers, PTI reported. This decision comes amid rising student suicides due to study pressure, especially in Rajasthan's Kota city, dubbed India's "coaching capital."
Education initiatives
Committee to review PM-SHRI and NCERT's performance
The committee will also review the Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) scheme in 2025-26. Further, it will assess the functioning of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and its efforts to promote education among linguistic and religious minorities. The panel is also expected to examine the Ministry of Education's plans for establishing a Higher Education Council of India (HECI).
Legislative changes
HECI bill to be introduced in Winter session
A bill to establish the HECI, which will replace bodies like the University Grants Commission (UGC), is scheduled for introduction in Parliament's Winter session starting December 1. The proposed HECI is part of the new National Education Policy and aims to streamline higher education regulation by merging existing bodies, including the UGC, AICTE, and NCTE.
Technological influence
Panel to review impact of AI on education
The panel will also study the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the leverage of emerging technologies on education and students. This includes looking at current practices and policies related to school closures. In addition, it will review studies of Indological academic traditions and their effect on the current education system.