Kota Cares Initiative | 01 Mar 2025

Why in News?  

To address stress among students preparing for competitive exams and the rising cases of suicides, the Kota district administration recently announced a comprehensive set of reforms for student welfare across the city. 

 Key Points  

• About Kota Cares Initiative:  
  • 'Kota Cares' is a joint initiative of the district administration, coaching institutes, hostel associations and local communities, launched in December 2024. 
  • It is a significant step towards improving the educational ecosystem of the city. This initiative can serve as a model for other educational centres not only in Kota but across the country. 
• New Guidelines and Features: 
  • Housing and Financial Aid: 
    • Security and caution money will be removed from 4,000 hostels. 
    • Maintenance charges will be limited to Rs 2,000 per year. 
    • Parents will be given receipts for all payments. 
    • Defined guidelines for room change and leave policies. 
  • Safety and Security Measures: 
    • Compulsory gate-keeper training for all hostel staff. 
    • Installation of modern security systems including CCTV surveillance and biometric systems. 
    • Special provisions for women's hostels, which will also include women wardens. 
    • Mandatory certification for anti-hanging devices and No Objection Certificates (NOC) for fire hazards. 
    • Regular night attendance checks through personal room visits.  
  • Student Welfare Initiatives: 
    • Free access to Chambal Riverfront and Oxygen Zone 
    • Designated spaces for recreation in all hostels. 
    • Availability of food services during mid-term holidays.  
    • Kota Cares Help Desk at Railway Stations and Bus Terminals. 
    • A citywide network of student support centers.