Bhubaneswar, September 3 (IANS): As many as 189 students committed suicide in Odisha in 2023, an increase of about 59 per cent compared to 119 deaths in 2021, it was reported on Monday.

Replying to a question by MP Dhruba Charan Sahoo, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said that 481 students, including 218 boys and 263 girls, committed suicide in the state between 2021 and 2023.

According to data provided by CM Majhi, 119 students, including 58 boys and 61 girls, committed suicide in 2021, while in 2023 the number rose to 189 — 85 boys and 104 girls.

In 2022, 173 students committed suicide statewide, including 75 boys and 98 girls.

The data also showed that between 2021 and 2023, the suicide rate increase among girls is significantly higher (around 70%) than among boys.

CM Majhi informed that only four cases of farmer suicides were reported in the state between 2021 and 2023.

The data also revealed that a total of 5,989 suicide cases were recorded in the state in 2023, down 2.4% from 6,140 cases in 2022.

In 2021, 5,649 people committed suicide in the state.

“The alarming rise in suicides among students in Odisha is due to factors like rising competition, high social and family expectations and lack of emotional support due to parents’ hectic schedule. Excessive use of gadgets and social media further isolates students, weakening their stress tolerance and coping skills,” said Dr Amrit Pattojoshi, honorary secretary, Indian Psychiatric Society.

“In addition, failed relationships due to decreased tolerance, substance use due to easy access and social isolation are intensifying this crisis, which is worsened by the lack of societal compassion,” Pattojoshi added.