Under pressure: How marks weigh over mind

I don't think I will have enough time to finish the assignment today. I have to run to my tuition class, and after that, I have another class to attend."

- PRIYANJALI DAS

"Not just classes, I have to sit for a three-hour mock exam today, and after going back home, I have to prepare for another mock test tomorrow."

Amid the busy metro crowd, this conversation between two students coming back from school looking exhausted might make you linger for a minute and force you to think about the rat race the youth of today cannot run away from.

In comparison, you might think about your days of yore when after-school activity was the mandatory evening play session with friends.

However, the very next moment, your phone's popup news notification alerts you that two students from your state have topped the central national entrance exam, making you yet wonder for the second time how much dedication they must have put in for them to achieve top ranks.

The JEE MAIN session two results are out. The UP board Class 12 results are out. The WBJEE 2025 exam was just held two days back, while the NEET UG exam would be conducted in just a few day's time.

For millions of students each year, these exams act as the doorway to premium institutions and universities that enthral them with the glory of an excellent placement, further academic achievements, a stable income and a secure balanced life.