Kota, Rajasthan

{{About|the city in Rajasthan, India|its namesake district|Kota district|the historical region and state|Kota State}} {{Use Indian English|date=June 2016}} {{Use dmy dates|date=April 2020}}  {{Infobox settlement | name = Kota | native_name = ''Koṭā'' (Hindi) | native_name_lang = | other_name = | settlement_type = Metropolis | image_skyline = {{multiple image | border = infobox | total_width = 300 | image_style = | perrow = 1/2/2/2/2/1 | image1= | caption1 = Chambal Riverfront in kota | image2 = Jag Mandir Kota.jpg | caption2 = Jag Mandir Palace | image3 = Seven wonders.jpg | caption3 =Seven Wonders Park | image4 =Karna Ghatotkacha fight sculpture, Kota Rajasthan India.jpg | caption4 =Ghatotkacha Circle | image5 = | caption5 = Oxyzone City Park | image6 = | caption6 = Chambal Garden | image7 = Chambal-river-gorge.jpg | caption7 = Chambal river | image8 = Hanging Bridge Kota.jpg | caption8 = Kota Hanging Bridge | image9 =Kota City of Rajasthan View.jpg | caption9 =Kota City Aerial View }} | image_map = | map_alt = | map_caption = | nickname = Coaching capital of India<ref>{{URL|https://www.magzter.com/stories/Business/Outlook-Money/The-Coaching-Capital-Of-India|kota is also known as coaching capital of india}} magzter.com</ref> | pushpin_map = India Rajasthan#India | pushpin_label_position = right | pushpin_map_alt = | pushpin_map_caption = | coordinates = {{coord|display=inline,title}} | subdivision_type = Country | subdivision_name = {{flag|India}} | subdivision_type1 = State | subdivision_name1 = {{flagicon image|Flag of Rajasthan.svg}} Rajasthan | subdivision_type2 = District | subdivision_name2 = Kota | subdivision_type3 = Division | subdivision_name3 = Kota Division (Hadoti Region) | established_title =  | established_date = 1631 | founder = | named_for = Kotia Bhil<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bhaskar.com/news/raj-oth-rajasthan-news-kotia-bheel-3590030.html|title=Jinke nam se Kota ka nam para 300 sal bad lagai jaegi unki pratima|script-title=hi:जिनके नाम से कोटा का नाम पड़ा 300 साल बाद लगाई जाएगी उनकी प्रतिमा|trans-title=A statue of the person after whom Kota was named will be installed after 300 years|work=Dainik Bhaskar|language=hi|date=30 July 2012}}</ref> | government_type = Municipal Corporation | governing_body = <div> *Kota Municipal Corporation </div> | leader_title = Mayor | leader_name = | leader_title2 = Municipal Commissioner | leader_name2 = Anurag Bhargav, RAS<ref>{{cite web |title= Administration : Kota Municipal Corporation |url=http://kotamc.org/UI/Static/CEOmessage.aspx?pageid=2 |date=24 June 2024}}</ref> | leader_title3 = | leader_name3 = | leader_title4 = | leader_name4 = | unit_pref = Metric | area_footnotes = <ref name='Kotamc'/><ref name="KOTA-Census-2011">{{cite web|url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/dchb/0829_PART_B_DCHB_%200829_KOTA.pdf|title=Kota District Census 2011 Handbook: VILLAGE AND TOWN WISE PRIMARY CENSUS ABSTRACT (PCA)|publisher=Census of India|access-date=19 April 2016|page=29 (pdf) Urban Section|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180427044914/http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/dchb/0829_PART_B_DCHB_%200829_KOTA.pdf|archive-date=27 April 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> | area_total_km2 = 527 | elevation_footnotes = | elevation_m = 271 | population_total = 1,001,694 | population_as_of = 2011 | population_rank = 46th | population_density_km2 = auto | population_demonym = | population_footnotes = <ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/pca/SearchDetails.aspx?Id=112860|title=2011 census: Kota Municipal Corporation Demographics|publisher=Censusofindia.gov.in|access-date=2016-04-07}}</ref><ref name="CIT">{{cite web|url=http://www.citypopulation.de/php/india-rajasthan.php?cityid=0843001000|title=Kota (Kota, Rajasthan, India) – Population Statistics and Location in Maps and Charts – City Population|access-date=20 July 2016|work=Citypopulation. de|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160820151838/http://www.citypopulation.de/php/india-rajasthan.php?cityid=0843001000|archive-date=20 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> | demographics_type1 = Languages | demographics1_title1 = Official | demographics1_info1 = Hindi, English | demographics1_title2 = Native | demographics1_info2 = Rajasthani, Harauti | timezone1 = IST | utc_offset1 = +5:30 | postal_code_type = PIN | postal_code = 324001 to 324011 and 324022 | area_code_type = Telephone code | area_code = 0744 | registration_plate = RJ-20 | blank1_name_sec1 = Sex ratio | blank1_info_sec1 = 895 ♀/♂ | website = {{URL|http://kotamc.org/}} | iso_code = RJ-IN | footnotes = | official_name = }}

'''Kota''' ({{IPAc-en|audio=Kota.ogg|'|k|oʊ|t|ə}}), previously known as ''Kotah'', is the third-largest city of the western Indian state of Rajasthan.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.indiatravelportal.com/rajasthan-tourism/major-cities/ |title=Major Cities in Rajasthan |publisher=Indiatravelportal.com |access-date=2013-09-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130803094437/http://www.indiatravelportal.com/rajasthan-tourism/major-cities |archive-date=3 August 2013 |url-status=live}}</ref> It is located about 230 km (143 mi) south of the state capital, Jaipur, on the banks of the Chambal River. As of 2024, with a population of over 1.5 million, it is the third most populous city in Rajasthan, after Jaipur and Jodhpur.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kota, India Metro Area Population 1950-2024 |url=https://www.macrotrends.net/global-metrics/cities/21310/kota/population#:~:text=The%20current%20metro%20area%20population,a%203%25%20increase%20from%202021. |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=www.macrotrends.net}}</ref> It is also India's first and world's second traffic signal free city after Bhutan's capital Thimphu. It serves as the administrative headquarters for the Kota district and Kota division. It was founded as a walled city in the 14th century in the erstwhile Bundi state and became the capital of the princely state of Kota in 1625, following the separation of the Bundi and the Kota state.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Welcome to -Nagar Nigam Kota North |url=http://kotamc.org/UI/Static/Kotahistory.aspx#:~:text=The%20city%20of%20Kota%20(previously,the%20land%20of%20the%20Hadas. |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=kotamc.org}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=History of Kota, Bundi, Jhalawar : Books Collection |url=https://rgbooks.net/category/kota-bundi-jhalawar/#:~:text=RG%20Kota,%20Bundi,%20Jhala...&text=Kota,%20also%20spelled%20Kotah,%20city,%E0%A4%B0%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%9C%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%A5%E0%A4%BE%E0%A4%A8%20%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BE%20%E0%A4%B9%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B8%E0%A5%8D%E0%A4%B8%E0%A4%BE%20%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%A8%20%E0%A4%97%E0%A4%AF%E0%A4%BE%E0%A5%A4&text=Sale! |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=Rajasthani Granthagar |language=en-US}}</ref> Kota is renowned for its coaching institutes for engineering and medical entrance exams, such as JEE and NEET. Each year, over 200,000 students move to Kota to prepare for these competitive exams.<ref name=":1" />

In addition to several monuments, Kota is known for its palaces and gardens.<ref name="KOT">{{cite web|url=http://www.tsiindia.com/tours-to-rajasthan/tours-to-kota/|title=Tours to Kota|work=Indian Horizons|access-date=2016-06-05|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160817130730/http://www.tsiindia.com/tours-to-rajasthan/tours-to-kota/|archive-date=17 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="KOTT">{{cite web|url=http://www.tsiindia.com/tours-to-rajasthan/tours-to-kota/lakes-and-gardens-in-kota-rajasthan.html|title=Lakes and Gardens in Kota|work=Indian Horizons|access-date=2016-06-05|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160817143936/http://www.tsiindia.com/tours-to-rajasthan/tours-to-kota/lakes-and-gardens-in-kota-rajasthan.html|archive-date=17 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> The city was included among 98 Indian cities for the Smart Cities Mission initiated by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/centre-releases-list-of-98-cities-for-smart-city-project/article7586751.ece|title=Centre unveils list of 98 smart cities; UP, TN strike it rich|newspaper=The Hindu|access-date=2016-05-24|date=2015-08-28|author=Mehboob Jeelani|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161126124324/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/centre-releases-list-of-98-cities-for-smart-city-project/article7586751.ece|archive-date=26 November 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> and was listed at 67th place after the results of the first round were released. Afterward, the top 20 cities were further selected for funding in the immediate financial year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://smartcities.gov.in/writereaddata/Ranking_of_Smart%20Cities.pdf|title=Ranking of Smart Cities|publisher=Ministry of Urban Development|access-date=2016-05-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160322215128/http://smartcities.gov.in/writereaddata/Ranking_of_Smart%20Cities.pdf|archive-date=22 March 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

==History== {{see also|Kota State}} thumb|left|Procession of Raja Ram Singh II of Kota, Later Mughal Period, c. 1850 thumb|left|Chambal riverfront thumb|left|Statue of King Kotia Bhil Smarak The history of the city dates back to the 12th century CE, when Rao Deva, a Chauhan Rajput chieftain belonging to the Hada clan, conquered the territory and founded Bundi and Hadoti. Later, in the early 17th century, during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, the ruler of Bundi – Rao Ratan Singh, gave the smaller principality of Kota to his son, Madho Singh. Since then Kota has been recognized as a hallmark of the Rajput gallantry and culture.<ref name="KOTJH" />

{| class="toccolours" border="1" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2" style="float: right; margin: 0 0 1em 1em; width: 250px; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 95%;" |- | colspan="2" style="margin-left:inherit; background:pink; text-align:center; font-size:medium;"|Princely city: '''Kota (कोटा)''' |- style="vertical-align: top;" | '''Region''' | Hadoti |- style="vertical-align: top;" | '''19th-century flag''' | 50px |- style="vertical-align: top;" | '''Independence from:''' | Bundi State |- style="vertical-align: top;" | '''State existed:''' | 1579–1949 |- style="vertical-align: top;" | '''Dynasties''' | Rajput Chauhan Hada |- style="vertical-align: top;" | '''Capital''' | Kota |- style="vertical-align: top;" |  |}

[[File:Indian - Dewali celebrations at Kotah - Google Art Project.jpg|thumb|left|Diwali celebrations at Kota, 1690s]] Kota became an independent state in 1631 when Rao Madho Singh, the second son of Rao Ratan of [Bundi], was made the ruler by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir.<ref name="HKOT"/> Soon, Kota outgrew its parent state as it expanded in area, became wealthier in revenue, and more powerful. Maharao Bhim Singh played a pivotal role in Kota's history, having held a 'Mansab'<ref name="HKOT">{{cite web|url=http://www.mapsofindia.com/kota/history.html|title=History of Kota|work=Maps of India|access-date=5 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160808092932/http://www.mapsofindia.com/kota/history.html|archive-date=8 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> of five thousand and being the first in his dynasty to have the title of Maharao. Zalim Singh, a diplomat and statesman, emerged as another prominent figure of the state in the 18th century. Although initially being a general of Kota's army, he rose to the regent of the kingdom after the king died, leaving a minor on the throne.<ref name="KOTJH">{{cite web|url=http://www.rajasthantravel.org.uk/kota/|title=About Kota|work=Rajasthan Travel Guide & News |publisher=Rajasthan Travel|access-date=2016-06-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160908203327/http://www.rajasthantravel.org.uk/kota/|archive-date=8 September 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> He remained a direct administrator of the state. In 1817, a treaty of friendship was signed between him and the British on the condition of carving out part of the existing state for his descendants, resulting in the formation of Jhalawar State in 1838.<ref name="KOTJH"/> Kota was not involved in the earlier events of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. However, when in October 1857, rebels murdered the local British resident and his two sons, British forces responded by storming the city and, after some resistance, capturing it in March 1858.<ref>{{cite book|last=Llewellyn-Jones|first=Rosie|title=The Great Uprising in India, Untold Stories. ''Chapter Two: The Kotah Residency Murders''.|pages=66–95|publisher=Boydell & Brewer, England|year=2007|isbn=978-1843833048}}</ref>

In the 1940s, social activist Guru Radha Kishan organised trade union activities and campaigned against the colonial government. He left Kota after the local administration learned of the arrest warrant issued against him for his participation in Indian Independence activities.

==Geography== Kishore Sagar Lake|thumb|left Kota is situated along the banks of the Chambal River in the southern part of Rajasthan. It is the third-largest city of Rajasthan after Jaipur and Jodhpur. The cartographic coordinates are {{Coord|25.18|N|75.83|E|}}.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.fallingrain.com/world/IN/24/Kota.html |title=Falling Rain Genomics, Inc – Kota |access-date=2 November 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070311222250/http://www.fallingrain.com/world/IN/24/Kota.html |archive-date=11 March 2007 |url-status=live}}</ref> It covers an area of {{Convert|221.36|km2|abbr=on}}.<ref name='Kotamc'>{{Cite web|url=http://kotamc.org/UI/Static/cityprofile.aspx|title=City Profile|website=kotamc.org|access-date=21 November 2020|archive-date=25 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230425014846/http://kotamc.org/UI/Static/cityprofile.aspx|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="KOTA-Census-2011"/><ref name="Statistics by Govt. of Rajasthan">[http://www.rajasthan.gov.in/KOTA1.SHTM Statistics by Govt. of Rajasthan] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070629033725/http://www.rajasthan.gov.in/KOTA1.SHTM |date=29 June 2007 }}</ref> It has an average elevation of 271 metres (889 ft). The district is bound on the north and northwest by Sawai Madhopur, Tonk, and Bundi districts. The Chambal River separates these districts from the Kota district, forming the natural boundary.

The city of Kota is situated at the centre of the southeastern region of Rajasthan, a region very widely known as Hadoti, the land of the Hadas. Kota lies along the banks of the Chambal river on a high sloping tableland forming a part of the Malwa Plateau. The general slope of the city is towards the north. The comparatively rocky, barren, and elevated land in the southern part of the city descends towards a plain agricultural land in the north. The Mukundara hills run from the southeast to the northwest axis of the town.

Kota has fertile land and greenery with irrigation facilities through canals. The two main canals, referred to as the left main canal (towards Bundi) and the right main canal (towards Baran), originate from the reservoir created by Kota Barrage.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kotadivision.nic.in/commandareadevlopment.htm|title=COMMAND AREA DEVELOPMENT CHAMBAL, KOTA|access-date=3 July 2016|publisher=kotadivision.nic.in|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120323190452/http://kotadivision.nic.in/commandareadevlopment.htm|archive-date=23 March 2012}}</ref><ref name="CVP">{{cite web|url=http://waterresources.rajasthan.gov.in/4chambal.htm |title=Chambal Valley Project |publisher=Water Resources Department, Govt. of Rajasthan |access-date=3 July 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304085442/http://waterresources.rajasthan.gov.in/4chambal.htm |archive-date= 4 March 2016 }}</ref> The tributaries of these canals form a network in the city and surrounding areas of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, and supplements the irrigation of these areas.<ref name="CVP"/>

===Climate=== {{climate chart |Kota |10.6|23.2|10 |12.8|26.0|20 |18.6|32.7|10 |24.8|38.6|10 |29.3|42.1|20 |28.5|39.6|50 |26.2|33.6|250 |25.9|31.5|240 |25.0|34.3|110 |22.0|34|20 |15.6|29.6|10 |12.0|25.1|10 |source=[http://www.mustseeindia.com/Kota-weather Kota weather] |float=right |clear=none }}

Kota has a semi-arid climate (Köppen climate classification ''BSh''), bordering on a Monsoon-influenced humid subtropical climate (Köppen: Cwa), with high temperatures throughout the year. Summers are long, hot, and dry, starting in late March and lasting till the end of June. The temperatures average above 40 °C in May and June, frequently exceed 45 °C, with temperatures as high as 48.5 °C have also been recorded.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/nation/heat-wave-claims-10-lives-kota-hottest-at-484-c_629219.html|title=Heat wave claims 10 lives; Kota hottest at 48.4 °C|date=26 May 2010|access-date=23 April 2016|publisher=Zee News|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921131042/http://zeenews.india.com/news/nation/heat-wave-claims-10-lives-kota-hottest-at-484-c_629219.html|archive-date=21 September 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> The monsoon season follows with comparatively lower temperatures, but higher humidity and frequent, torrential downpours. The monsoons subside in October and temperatures rise again. The brief, mild winter starts in late November and lasts until the last week of February. Temperatures hover between 26.7 °C (max) to 12.0 °C (min). This can be considered the best time to visit Kota because of the intense heat in the summer.<ref name="Climate">{{cite web|url=https://weather-and-climate.com/average-monthly-Rainfall-Temperature-Sunshine,Kota,India|title=Kota Climate details: Monthly Temperature, Rainfall and Sunshine|access-date=2016-05-08|publisher=Weather and climate.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160605055402/https://weather-and-climate.com/average-monthly-Rainfall-Temperature-Sunshine,Kota,India|archive-date=5 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

The average annual rainfall in the Kota district is 800.6 mm.<ref name="Statistics by Govt. of Rajasthan"/> Most of the rainfall can be attributed to the southwest monsoon, which usually begins around the last week of June and may last till mid-September. Pre-monsoon showers usually occur around the middle of June, with post-monsoon rains occasionally occurring in October. The winter is largely dry, although some rainfall does occur as a result of the Western Disturbance passing over the region.<ref name="Climate"/>

{{Weather box | location = Kota Airport (1991–2020, extremes 1961–2020) | metric first = yes | single line = yes | Jan record high C = 33.9 | Feb record high C = 38.3 | Mar record high C = 42.8 | Apr record high C = 47.5 | May record high C = 48.5 | Jun record high C = 47.8 | Jul record high C = 47.2 | Aug record high C = 42.0 | Sep record high C = 41.0 | Oct record high C = 41.1 | Nov record high C = 38.0 | Dec record high C = 33.9 | year record high C = 48.5 | Jan high C = 23.2 | Feb high C = 27.1 | Mar high C = 33.3 | Apr high C = 39.3 | May high C = 42.6 | Jun high C = 40.3 | Jul high C = 34.3 | Aug high C = 32.2 | Sep high C = 33.9 | Oct high C = 34.6 | Nov high C = 30.1 | Dec high C = 25.7 | year high C = 33.1 |Jan mean C = 17.3 |Feb mean C = 20.8 |Mar mean C = 26.6 |Apr mean C = 32.6 |May mean C = 36.3 |Jun mean C = 34.7 |Jul mean C = 30.5 |Aug mean C = 29.0 |Sep mean C = 29.6 |Oct mean C = 28.5 |Nov mean C = 23.7 |Dec mean C = 18.7 | Jan low C = 11.2 | Feb low C = 14.3 | Mar low C = 19.8 | Apr low C = 25.7 | May low C = 30.0 | Jun low C = 29.5 | Jul low C = 27.0 | Aug low C = 25.8 | Sep low C = 25.5 | Oct low C = 22.3 | Nov low C = 16.9 | Dec low C = 12.6 | year low C = 21.8 | Jan record low C = 1.7 | Feb record low C = 2.2 | Mar record low C = 8.6 | Apr record low C = 14.0 | May record low C = 17.5 | Jun record low C = 18.8 | Jul record low C = 16.4 | Aug record low C = 18.0 | Sep record low C = 16.4 | Oct record low C = 13.0 | Nov record low C = 7.1 | Dec record low C = 2.6 | year record low C = 1.7 | rain colour = green | Jan rain mm = 5.7 | Feb rain mm = 8.2 | Mar rain mm = 2.7 | Apr rain mm = 8.4 | May rain mm = 9.7 | Jun rain mm = 80.3 | Jul rain mm = 296.7 | Aug rain mm = 269.6 | Sep rain mm = 108.7 | Oct rain mm = 18.9 | Nov rain mm = 3.8 | Dec rain mm = 3.6 | year rain mm = 816.2 | Jan rain days = 0.7 | Feb rain days = 0.7 | Mar rain days = 0.6 | Apr rain days = 0.8 | May rain days = 1.0 | Jun rain days = 4.7 | Jul rain days = 11.6 | Aug rain days = 11.2 | Sep rain days = 5.8 | Oct rain days = 0.9 | Nov rain days = 0.4 | Dec rain days = 0.3 | year rain days = 38.6 | time day = 17:30 IST | Jan humidity = 40 | Feb humidity = 30 | Mar humidity = 19 | Apr humidity = 13 | May humidity = 15 | Jun humidity = 33 | Jul humidity = 62 | Aug humidity = 69 | Sep humidity = 54 | Oct humidity = 31 | Nov humidity = 31 | Dec humidity = 37 | year humidity = 36 | source 1 = India Meteorological Department<ref>{{cite web | url = https://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/Climatological%20Tables%201991-2020.pdf | title = Climatological Tables of Observatories in India 1991-2020 | publisher = India Meteorological Department | access-date = April 8, 2024 }}</ref><ref name=IMDnormals> {{cite web | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200205040301/http://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/1981-2010%20CLIM%20NORMALS%20%28STATWISE%29.pdf | archive-date = 5 February 2020 | url = https://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/1981-2010%20CLIM%20NORMALS%20%28STATWISE%29.pdf | title = Station: Kapurthala Climatological Table 1981–2010 | work = Climatological Normals 1981–2010 | publisher = India Meteorological Department | date = January 2015 | pages = 389–390 | access-date = 20 January 2021}}</ref><ref name=IMDextremes> {{cite web | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200205042509/http://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/EXTREMES%20OF%20TEMPERATURE%20and%20RAINFALL%20upto%202012.pdf | archive-date = 5 February 2020 | url = https://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/EXTREMES%20OF%20TEMPERATURE%20and%20RAINFALL%20upto%202012.pdf | title = Extremes of Temperature & Rainfall for Indian Stations (Up to 2012) | publisher = India Meteorological Department | date = December 2016 | page = M170 | access-date = 20 January 2021}}</ref> | date = May 2012 |source 2 = Tokyo Climate Center (mean temperatures 1991–2020)<ref name=TCC1> {{cite web | url = https://ds.data.jma.go.jp/gmd/tcc/tcc/products/climate/normal/parts/NrmMonth_e.php?stn=42587 | title = Normals Data: Kota Aerodrome – India Latitude: 25.15°N Longitude: 75.85°E Height: 273 (m) | publisher = Japan Meteorological Agency | access-date = 1 December 2022}}</ref> }}Kota has been ranked 38th best “National Clean Air City” (under Category 1 >10L Population cities) in India.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 September 2024 |title=Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2024 |url=https://prana.cpcb.gov.in/ncapServices/robust/fetchFilesFromDrive/Swachh_Vayu_Survekshan_2024_Result.pdf |website=Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2024}}</ref>

==Demographics==

{{bar box |title=Religion in Kota City (2011)<ref name="KOTAREL"/> |titlebar=#Fcd116 |left1=Religion |right1=Percent |float=right |bars= {{bar percent|Hinduism|darkorange|80.50}} {{bar percent|Islam|green|15.87}} {{bar percent|Jainism|pink|2.17}} {{bar percent|Sikhism|darkkhaki|0.86}} {{bar percent|Christianity|dodgerblue|0.42}} {{bar percent|Other or not stated|black|0.18}} |caption=Distribution of religions }}

According to the 2011 census of India, Kota City had a population of 1,001,694, of which male and female are 528,601 and 473,093 respectively.<ref name="CIT"/><ref name="KOTW"/> The provisional results of the 2011 census reported the city's population as 1,001,365.<ref name=Cities1Lakhandabove>{{cite web | url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011-prov-results/paper2/data_files/India2/Table_2_PR_Cities_1Lakh_and_Above.pdf| title=Provisional Population Totals, Census of India 2011; Cities having population 1 lakh and above | publisher=Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India | access-date=26 March 2012 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120507135928/http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011-prov-results/paper2/data_files/India2/Table_2_PR_Cities_1Lakh_and_Above.pdf | archive-date=7 May 2012 | url-status=live}}</ref> The urban agglomeration of Kota consists of the city only.<ref name="KOTW">[http://www.census2011.co.in/census/city/90-kota.html Kota City Census report] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130209080421/http://www.census2011.co.in/census/city/90-kota.html |date=9 February 2013 }} census 2011</ref><ref>[http://www.census2011.co.in/census/district/452-kota.html Kota District Demographics, Census 2011] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150710214939/http://www.census2011.co.in/census/district/452-kota.html |date=10 July 2015 }} census India 2011</ref> The sex ratio was 895, and 12.14% were under six years of age. The effective literacy rate was 82.80%, with male literacy at 89.49% and female literacy at 75.33%.<ref name="KOTW"/>

According to the 2011 census, Hinduism is the majority religion in the city, practiced by about 80.5% of the population. Muslims form a significant minority (15.9%), followed by Jains (2.2%), Sikhs (0.9%), and Christians (0.4%).<ref name="KOTAREL">{{cite web |title=Table C-01 Population By Religion - Rajasthan|url=https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/11390/download/14503/DDW08C-01%20MDDS.XLS|website=census.gov.in|publisher=Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India}}</ref>

{{Pie chart | caption = Languages of Kota (2011)<ref name="language">{{Cite web |url=https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/10234/download/13346/DDW-C16-TOWN-STMT-MDDS-0800.XLSX |title=Table C-16 Population by Mother Tongue (Urban): Rajasthan |website=censusindia.gov.in |publisher=Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India}}</ref> | label1 = Hindi | value1 = 55.60 | color1 = orange | label2 = Hadoti | value2 = 29.37 | color2 = salmon | label3 = Rajasthani | value3 = 4.38 | color3 = firebrick | label4 = Urdu | value4 = 3.12 | color4 = green | label5 = Sindhi | value5 = 2.16 | color5 = limegreen | label6 = Malvi | value6 = 1.13 | color6 = pink | label7 = Others | value7 = 4.24 | color7 = grey | thumb = left }}

Harauti, a dialect of Rajasthani, is widely spoken in Kota, alongside Hindi, Marwari, and English, being the other languages spoken.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rajasthan-tourism.org/languages/rajasthan-languages.html|title=Languages of Rajasthan|publisher=Rajasthan Tourism|access-date=24 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160609094441/http://www.rajasthan-tourism.org/languages/rajasthan-languages.html|archive-date=9 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Government institutions and courts== [[file:Karna Ghatotkacha fight sculpture, Kota Rajasthan India.jpg|thumb|Karna Ghatotkacha fight sculpture in Kota]] Governmental institutions in Kota include: *Municipal Corporation (North-South) *Collectorate *Office of the Divisional Commissioner *Rajasthan Housing Board *Command Area Development (CAD) *Urban Improvement Trust (UIT) Now (KDA) Kota Development Authority *Office of the Superintendent of Police, Inspector General of Police, and the Income Tax commissioner of the Kota range. *Office of the Divisional Railway Manager, Kota Division, West Central Railway *Office of the Deputy Commissioner of central excise and service tax Instrumentation Ltd is a Public Sector company based in Kota.<ref name="Inst">{{cite web|url=http://www.ilkota.in|title=Instrumentation Ltd Kota: Official website|access-date=2016-05-08|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180817003137/http://www.ilkota.in/|archive-date=17 August 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> Its clientele includes public sector entities such as the Indian Railways, BSNL, and VSNL. Presently, it has been shut down.

The District court provides court and notary services.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ecourts.gov.in/kota|title=District and Session Court, Kota: Official Website of District Court|access-date=2016-06-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160611175207/http://ecourts.gov.in/kota|archive-date=11 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Economy== The city is the trade centre for an area in which cotton, millet, wheat, coriander, and oilseeds are grown; industries include cotton and oilseed milling, textile weaving, distilling, dairying, and the manufacture of metal handicrafts.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kotaonline.in/city-guide/business-and-economy-of-kota|title=Economy of Kota|access-date=2015-05-06|publisher=kotaonline.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160609203314/http://www.kotaonline.in/city-guide/business-and-economy-of-kota|archive-date=9 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> Kota also has an extensive industry of stone-polishing (tiles) of a stone called Kota Stone, used for the floor and walls of residential and business buildings. Over the last 15 years, Kota has emerged as an Education hub of the country as producing excellent results in IIT-JEE and medical entrance exams.<ref name="KOTAEDU"/><ref name="KOTE">{{cite news|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/education/jee-main-2016-results-kota-institutes-excel-again/story-ma4PKJT9lTebAAOHBx9rWO.html|title=JEE (Main) 2016 results: Kota institutes excel again|newspaper=Hindustan Times|access-date=4 June 2016|date=29 April 2016|author=Aabshar H Quazi|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160531212655/http://www.hindustantimes.com/education/jee-main-2016-results-kota-institutes-excel-again/story-ma4PKJT9lTebAAOHBx9rWO.html|archive-date=31 May 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="KOTE1">{{cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Top-3-in-IIT-entrance-exam-from-Kota-institute/articleshow/52720569.cms|title=Top 3 in IIT entrance exam from Kota institute|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=2 July 2016|date=13 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160616041854/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Top-3-in-IIT-entrance-exam-from-Kota-institute/articleshow/52720569.cms|archive-date=16 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Kota educational industry === Kota is recognised as a major center for competitive test preparation, attracting around 150,000 students each year, as reported in 2023. These students come from across the country to enroll in coaching institutes that prepare them for national entrance exams for engineering and medical colleges. The industry generates an estimated $350–$450 million annually, with over 300 coaching centers, including the Allen Career Institute, which tutors more than one million students nationwide.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Choksi |first=Mansi |date=January 18, 2023 |title=Inside India's Cram City |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/18/magazine/india-cram-schools-kota.html |website=The New York Times Magazine}}</ref>

The coaching industry in Kota originated in the 1980s when Vinod Kumar Bansal, a mechanical engineer, began tutoring students after being diagnosed with a degenerative condition that confined him to a wheelchair. His methods, inspired by the Kumon method of learning, emphasized systematic problem solving. Bansal's success in helping students gain admission to prestigious institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) drew more students to the city. Over time, other coaching centers were established by former colleagues and associates, eventually transforming Kota into an educational hub.<ref name=":0" />

===Kota Doria or Kota Doriya and Sarees=== {{Main|Kota doria}} [[File:Kota sari with gota patti by ashish 01.JPG|thumb|right|Kota Sari with Gota Patti embroidery]]

Weaving in Kota was started by Maharana Bhimdev in the 18th century.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/mp/2005/04/02/stories/2005040202100100.htm |title=Metro Plus Delhi / Arts & Crafts : Let's go Kota |date=2005-04-02 |access-date=2013-09-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140318105910/http://www.hindu.com/mp/2005/04/02/stories/2005040202100100.htm |archive-date=18 March 2014 |newspaper=The Hindu |url-status=dead}}</ref>

The Kota saris, like most traditional pieces of work, had started becoming lost before designer Vidhi Singhania moved to Kota and started working with the workers to revive its market.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/thehindu/mp/2003/03/12/stories/2003031200400100.htm|title=A piece of 'tradition'|access-date=2016-04-20|date=2003-03-12|author=Radhika Rajamani|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040117204920/http://www.thehindu.com/thehindu/mp/2003/03/12/stories/2003031200400100.htm|archive-date=17 January 2004|newspaper=The Hindu|url-status=dead}}</ref> Many textile shops in the city sell different varieties of Kota doriya. These saris have become one of the trademarks of the city.<ref> {{cite web|url=http://www.kotaheritagesociety.in/khs/kota-doria/articles/kota-doria.html|title=Kota doriya – unique summer weave|publisher=Kota Heritage Society|access-date=2016-04-20|author=Ritu Jain and Victoria Singh|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160814043505/http://www.kotaheritagesociety.in/khs/kota-doria/articles/kota-doria.html|archive-date=14 August 2016|url-status=live}} </ref>

===Kota stone=== thumb|right|Storage area of Kota Stone {{Main|Kota Stone}} The fine-grained variety of limestone quarried from the Kota district is known as Kota stone, with rich greenish-blue and brown colours. Kota stone is tough, non-water-absorbent, non-slip, and non-porous. The varieties include Kota Blue Natural, Kota Blue Honed, Kota Blue Polished, Kota Blue Cobbles, Kota Brown Natural, and Kota Brown Polished.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/homes-and-gardens/kota-for-a-fresh-look/article3750325.ece|title=Kota, for a fresh look|newspaper=The Hindu|author=Sathya Prakash Varanashi|access-date=20 May 2016|date=20 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170911135258/http://www.thehindu.com/features/homes-and-gardens/kota-for-a-fresh-look/article3750325.ece|archive-date=11 September 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Food=== Kota is famous for Dal Kachori.

===Industries=== Kota is one of the industrial hubs in northern India, with chemical, cement, engineering, and power plants based there. The total number of industrial units in the district in 2010–11 stood at 12908, with 705 registered units.<ref name="KOTAIND">{{cite web|url=http://msmedijaipur.gov.in/Brief_Industrial_Potential_Report_of_Dist_kota.pdf|title=Brief Industrial Profile of Kota District|publisher=MSME Development Institute, Jaipur|access-date=24 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160629180307/http://msmedijaipur.gov.in/Brief_Industrial_Potential_Report_of_Dist_kota.pdf|archive-date=29 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> The district power plants show annual growth of 15–20% due to their strategic locations.<ref name="KOTAIND"/>

====Power plants==== Kota is surrounded by five power stations within its 50 km radius.

# Kota Super Thermal Power Plant – thermal<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rvunl.com/KotaSTPS.html|publisher=RVUN|title=Kota Super Thermal Power Plant|access-date=20 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160510080338/http://www.rvunl.com/KotaSTPS.html|archive-date=10 May 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> # Rajasthan Atomic Power Station in Rawatbhata Chittorgarh district (65 kilometres from Kota) – nuclear<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-newdelhi/rawatbhata-achieves-nuclear-power-production-feat/article6305963.ece|title=Rawatbhata achieves nuclear power production feat|newspaper=The Hindu|author=Aarti Dhar|date=12 August 2014|access-date=28 October 2016}}</ref> # NTPC Anta Gas Power Plant in Antah Baran district (50 kilometers from Kota) – gas # Jawahar Sagar Power Plant – hydro<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rvunl.com/JS.html|publisher=RVUN|title=Jawahar Sagar Hydel Power Station|access-date=20 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160313035658/http://rvunl.com/JS.html|archive-date=13 March 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> # Kalisindh Thermal Power Station (in Jhalrapatan, Jhalawar) – thermal #Surya Chambal Power Plant in Rangpur Kota district - biomass

==Education== ===Coaching Institutes===

The city is especially known in India as a centre for the preparation of various national-level competitive examinations through which the students seek admissions in various engineering and medical colleges of the country. Often termed as the "Kota Factory", the town contains more than 40 large coaching institutes for aspiring students trying to pass entrance exams for Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT), through the IIT-JEE, and prominent medical colleges such as the All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) of India, using NEET-UG.

Since 2000, the city has emerged as a popular coaching destination for preparing for competitive exams as well as for-profit educational services. The education sector of Kota has become one of the major contributors to the city's economy.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/2009/20091122/spectrum/main1.htm |title=The Sunday Tribune – Spectrum |work=The Tribune |access-date=2013-09-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131002004922/http://www.tribuneindia.com/2009/20091122/spectrum/main1.htm |archive-date=2 October 2013 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/businesses-in-kota-suffer-as-coaching-institutes-remain-shut-due-to-covid-1744452-2020-11-26|title=Businesses in Kota suffer as coaching institutes remain shut due to Covid|work=India Today|author=Wadhawan, Dev Ankur|date=27 November 2020|place=Kota|access-date=30 November 2020}}</ref> Kota is popularly referred to as "the coaching capital of India".<ref name="KOTAEDU">{{cite web|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/india-s-garish-free-market-in-education-115123100033_1.html|title=How Kota became India's capital for educational coaching|author=Anjali Puri|date=31 December 2015|access-date=11 January 2016|work=Business Standard|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160104165429/http://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/india-s-garish-free-market-in-education-115123100033_1.html|archive-date=4 January 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="KOTE"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.financialexpress.com/news/kota-the-coaching-capital/603210/0 |title=Kota, the coaching capital |work=The Financial Express |date=2010-04-11 |access-date=2013-09-27 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130904070440/http://www.financialexpress.com/news/kota-the-coaching-capital/603210/0 |archive-date=4 September 2013 |url-status=live}}</ref> Over 150,000 students from all over the country flock every year towards the city for preparation of various exams such as IIT-JEE and NEET-UG etc.<ref>{{cite web |last=Sharma |first=Yojana |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-20085558 |title=Meet the 'tutor kings and queens' |publisher=Bbc.co.uk |date=2012-11-27 |access-date=2013-09-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181123083813/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-20085558 |archive-date=23 November 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |author=TNN |url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-11-17/education/28252440_1_kota-iits-entrance-exams |title=IIT hub losing edge|date=2010-11-17 |access-date=2013-09-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029191851/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-11-17/education/28252440_1_kota-iits-entrance-exams |archive-date=29 October 2013 |work=The Times of India |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://forbesindia.com/article/cross-border/the-new-coaching-class-in-kota/33050/1 |title=Forbes India Magazine – The New Coaching Class in Kota |publisher=Forbesindia.com |access-date=2013-09-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130928012934/http://forbesindia.com/article/cross-border/the-new-coaching-class-in-kota/33050/1 |archive-date=28 September 2013 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1130429/jsp/bihar/story_16827959.jsp |title=Home tips cut Kota JEE rush |work=The Telegraph|location=Kolkota |date=2013-04-29 |access-date=2013-09-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130826170840/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1130429/jsp/bihar/story_16827959.jsp#.UibDn9L5mSo |archive-date=26 August 2013 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Many hostels and PGs are located in Kota near the vicinity of coaching centres for students. Students live here for 2–3 years and prepare for the exams. The annual turnover of the Kota coaching industry is about ₹1500 crore.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/education/kota-s-success-in-neet-fuels-boom-in-coaching-institute-business/story-HOzVggBE2vzNjLzUnojHWL.html|title=Kota's success in NEET fuels boom in coaching institute business|work=Hindustan Times|date=5 April 2017|access-date=17 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170416093611/http://www.hindustantimes.com/education/kota-s-success-in-neet-fuels-boom-in-coaching-institute-business/story-HOzVggBE2vzNjLzUnojHWL.html|archive-date=16 April 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> The majority of the students here are enrolled in schools, providing the facility of "dummy schooling", which gives students admission without the need to attend it regularly. However, it is an illegal practice.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/school-system-is-the-reason-why-kota-will-remain-necessary-evil/|title='School system is the reason why Kota will remain necessary evil'|work=The Indian Express|date=28 November 2015|first=Ankita|last=Dwivedi Johri|location=Kota|language=en-IN|access-date=8 February 2021}}</ref> In 2019, The Viral Fever launched a Web Series called Kota Factory to depict the lives of students who study at Kota.

Kota's emergence as a coaching hub began in 1985 when Vinod Kumar Bansal, an engineer, established Bansal Classes that eventually became Bansal Classes Private Limited.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/how-kota-became-coaching-factory-for-cracking-iit-58936-2009-10-20 |title=How Kota became coaching factory for cracking IIT|first=Himanshu|last=Mishra|work=India Today|date=21 October 2009|access-date=21 April 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170421093520/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/How+Kota+became+coaching+factory+for+cracking+IIT/1/67195.html |archive-date=21 April 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In 2024, Kota has also witnessed a significant decline in the number of students enrolling from 2-2.5 lakh students to just 85000-1 lakh students and revenue from ₹6,500-7,000 crore to ₹3,500 crore which is a decline by 50%, owing to the significant rise in student suicides and stricter rules implemented for coaching institutes by the Rajasthan Government and the Ministry of Education.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-12-19 |title=Empty Rooms & No Students, Is Kota's Coaching Hub Turning Into A Ghost Town? |url=https://www.freepressjournal.in/education/empty-rooms-no-students-is-kotas-coaching-hub-turning-into-a-ghost-town |access-date=2024-12-19 |work=Free Press Journal}}</ref><ref name="The Hindu">{{Cite news |date=2024-12-29 |title=50% decline in student suicides in Kota compared to last year: DM |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/rajasthan/50-decline-in-student-suicides-in-kota-compared-to-last-year-dm/article69039509.ece |access-date=2024-12-29 |work=The Hindu}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-01-18 |title=GUIDELINES FOR REGULATION OF COACHING CENTRES |url=https://www.education.gov.in/sites/upload_files/mhrd/files/Guideliens_Coaching_Centres_en.pdf |access-date=2024-01-18 |website=Ministry Of Education Government Of India}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-07-29 |title=Several steps taken to curb students' suicides, MoS Sukanta Majumdar |url=https://www.business-standard.com/india-news/several-steps-taken-to-curb-students-suicides-mos-sukanta-majumdar-124072900492_1.html |access-date=2024-07-29}}</ref>

===Student Suicides=== In the past few years, reports of students dying by suicide in the city have increased.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/thesundaystandard/2018/sep/02/rajasthans-kota-the-killer-coaching-hub-1866238.html|title=Rajasthan's Kota: The killer coaching hub|work=The New Indian Express|author=Asnani, Rajesh|date=2 September 2018|access-date=30 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201129223109/https://www.newindianexpress.com/thesundaystandard/2018/sep/02/rajasthans-kota-the-killer-coaching-hub-1866238.html|archive-date=29 November 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> These suicide incidents have sparked nationwide outrage and debate on mental health and the well-being of students in India. As per reports, students feel stressed and get pressurized in order to crack their target competitive exam. As per the National Crime Records Bureau report of 2014, 45 suicide cases of students were reported in the city. In the year 2015, 17 such cases were found.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/medical-aspirant-hangs-self-in-kota-no-suicide-note-recovered/515881/|title=Medical aspirant hangs self in Kota, no suicide note recovered|work=The Financial Express|date=20 January 2017|access-date=17 January 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170120142828/http://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/medical-aspirant-hangs-self-in-kota-no-suicide-note-recovered/515881/|archive-date=20 January 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> For the same cause, many coaching centres have also appointed counsellors and are organising recreational activities to help students. The Ministry of Education has launched the UMMEED (Understand, Motivate, Manage, Emphasize, Empower, Develop) scheme in view of the rising suicide cases in Kota.<ref> {{cite web|url=http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/behind-the-successes-of-kotas-coaching-centres-a-harsh-reality-1216880|title=Behind the Successes of Kota's Coaching Centres, a Harsh Reality|publisher=NDTV|date=12 September 2015|author=Singh, Harsha Kumari|access-date=2016-04-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160425092633/http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/behind-the-successes-of-kotas-coaching-centres-a-harsh-reality-1216880|archive-date=25 April 2016|url-status=live}} </ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/sunday-times/deep-focus/Why-Kota-is-so-killing/articleshow/50421411.cms|title=Why Kota is so killing|work=The Times of India|date=3 January 2016|author=Singh, Akhilesh|access-date=2016-04-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160409133626/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/sunday-times/deep-focus/Why-Kota-is-so-killing/articleshow/50421411.cms|archive-date=9 April 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/kota-coaching-factory-panic-calls-14-hr-days-morning-nightmares/|title=Kota coaching factory – Panic calls: 14-hr days, morning nightmares|work=The Indian Express|author=Dwivedi Johri, Ankita|date=26 November 2015|access-date=2016-04-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160416040650/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/kota-coaching-factory-panic-calls-14-hr-days-morning-nightmares/|archive-date=16 April 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1150701/jsp/nation/story_28907.jsp|title=Suicides hit IIT coaching hub|access-date=2016-05-06|work=The Telegraph|location=Kolkota|date=2015-07-01|author=Rakhee Roy Talukdar|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160508004258/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1150701/jsp/nation/story_28907.jsp#.VyyDG8u6ZDs|archive-date=8 May 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-10-03 |title=Draft UMMEED (Understand, Motivate, Manage, Empathize, Empower, Develop) Guidelines for Schools |url=https://dsel.education.gov.in/node/2641 |access-date=2023-10-03}}</ref>

The Rajasthan Government has proposed a new law, "Rajasthan Coaching Centre (Control and Regulation) Bill, 2024," to address the alarming rise in student suicide cases in Kota, the "Coaching Capital of India."<ref>{{Cite news |date=2025-01-19 |title=Bill on regulating coaching centres ready, to be tabled in Raj Assembly. |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/bill-on-regulating-coaching-centres-ready-to-be-tabled-in-raj-assembly/articleshow/117362050.cms |access-date=2025-01-19 |work=The Times Of India}}</ref>

Kota has earned the city the notorious tag of "Suicide capital" of students. In 2023, 26 cases of suicides were reported, which was the highest ever recorded in the history of Kota.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://frontline.thehindu.com/the-nation/education/spotlight-tragedy-in-kota-india-coaching-capital-rising-student-suicides-points-to-exam-stress-parental-pressure/article67259247.ece|title=Rising student suicides shock Kota, India's coaching capital|work=The Hindu|author=Sharma, Ashutosh|date=7 September 2023|accessdate=9 September 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-12-31 |title=Year Of Highest Student Suicides In Kota, Many Steps To Prevent Them |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kota-suicides-2023-year-of-highest-student-suicides-in-kota-many-steps-to-prevent-them-4773989 |access-date=2023-12-31}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2025-01-12 |title=Student Suicides Rock Kota: How To Find Your Way Out Of Hopelessness — Guide From A Psychologist |url=https://news.abplive.com/news/india/student-suicides-kota-how-to-find-way-out-of-hopelessness-psychologist-1743617 |access-date=2025-01-12 |work=ABP News}}</ref>

In 2024, Kota has witnessed a 50% decline in student suicide cases due to the various measures being implemented by the Kota District Administration.<ref name="The Hindu"/>

In January 2025, Kota again experienced a surge in student suicide cases, with a total of 6 students ending their lives in less than a month.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2025-01-22 |title=2 Student Suicides In Rajasthan's Kota In 24 Hours, Six So Far This Month |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/kota-student-suicides-2-student-suicides-in-rajasthans-kota-in-24-hours-six-so-far-this-month-7532995 |access-date=2025-01-22 |work=NDTV}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2025-01-22 |title=Two coaching students die by suicide within three hours in Kota. |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/two-coaching-students-die-by-suicide-within-three-hours-in-kota-101737553325344.html |access-date=2025-01-22 |work=Hindustan Times}}</ref>

The Kota District Administration has also launched a new initiative, "Kota Cares," in view of the rising suicide cases in the city.<ref>{{Cite news |date=25 February 2025 |title='Kota Cares' initiative: Transforming student welfare in India's coaching hub |url=https://bestcolleges.indiatoday.in/news-detail/kota-cares-initiative-transforming-student-welfare-in-indias-coaching-hub |access-date=25 February 2025 |work=INDIA TODAY}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite news |date=25 February 2025 |title=Kota administration announces new rules for hostels {{!}} Check details. |url=https://www.indiatvnews.com/rajasthan/kota-administration-announces-new-rules-for-hostels-security-fee-waiver-installation-of-anti-suicide-ceiling-fans-latest-updates-2025-02-25-977932 |access-date=25 February 2025 |work=INDIA TV}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=25 February 2025 |title=Anti-Suicide Ceiling Fans, Security Fee Waiver: New Rules For Kota Hostels. |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/anti-suicide-ceiling-fans-security-fee-waiver-new-rules-for-kota-hostels-7793787 |access-date=25 February 2025 |work=NDTV}}</ref>

===Colleges=== *Government Medical College, Kota *University Engineering College, Kota

===Universities===   *Agriculture University, Kota *Indian Institute of Information Technology, Kota *Rajasthan Technical University *University of Kota *Vardhaman Mahaveer Open University

==Places of interest== thumb|Seven Wonders Park Some of the popular visitor attractions in and nearby the city include Chambal Riverfront, City Park Chambal Garden, Seven Wonders Park, Kishore Sagar Lake, Jag Mandir Palace, Garh Palace, Umed Bhawan Palace, Chatra Vilas Garden, Ganesh Udyan, Traffic Garden, Godavari Dham Temple, Geparnath Mahadev Temple, Garadia Mahadev Temple, Chattaneshwar Mandir, Kota Zoological Park, Abheda Biological Park, City Park(IL Oxizone), Chatrapati Shivaji Park, Maharao Madho Singh Museum, Kota Government Museum, Brijraj Bhawan Palace, Abheda Mahal, Royal Cenotaphs at Kshar Bagh, Kota Barrage, Khade Ganesh Ji Mandir, Shiv Puri Dham, Maa Trikuta Mandir, Kansua Shiv Mandir, Darrah National Park and Jawahar Sagar Dam.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kota.rajasthan.gov.in/content/raj/kota/en/about-kota/tourist-places.html|title=Tourist Places in Kota, Rajasthan|publisher=Kota.Rajasthan.gov.in|access-date=2016-05-09|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160516235306/http://kota.rajasthan.gov.in/content/raj/kota/en/about-kota/tourist-places.html|archive-date=16 May 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://tourism.rajasthan.gov.in/kota|title=Kota: Rajasthan Tourism|publisher=Rajasthan Tourism|access-date=3 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160627111503/http://tourism.rajasthan.gov.in/kota|archive-date=27 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nativeplanet.com/kota/|title=Tourism in Kota|publisher=Nativeplanet.com|access-date=2016-05-08|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160604172924/http://www.nativeplanet.com/kota/|archive-date=4 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mapsofindia.com/kota/tourist-attractions/|title=Places to Visit in Kota|access-date=2016-05-08|publisher=Mapsofindia.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160522072651/http://www.mapsofindia.com/kota/tourist-attractions/|archive-date=22 May 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=5 November 2023 |title=Tour of Kota, Rajasthan |url=https://vnvtours.com/top-30-tourist-places-in-kota-you-cant-miss/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231108063455/https://vnvtours.com/top-30-tourist-places-in-kota-you-cant-miss/ |archive-date=8 November 2023 |access-date=5 November 2023 |publisher=VNV Tours}}</ref>

==Transport== Kota is well connected by road and rail to all major cities within Rajasthan as well as those located outside the state.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.titanaviation.co.in/|title=Titan Aviation Air Charter Service|publisher=Titan Aviation India|access-date=24 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160513233617/http://www.titanaviation.co.in/|archive-date=13 May 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Roadways=== Kota has two major interstate bus terminals, namely, Nayapura Bus Stand at Nayapura and Roadways New Bus Stand at Ramchandrapura.{{citation needed|date=November 2021}} National Highway No.27 (via Udaipur, Kanpur, Gorakhpur, Guwahati) and National highway No.52 (via Hisar, Churu, Sikar, Jaipur, Indore, Aurangabad, Solapur, and Hubli) pass through the Kota City.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nhai.org/doc/23june12/nh_nh%20wise.pdf|title=National highways and their length|access-date=2016-05-08|publisher=National Highway Authority of India|page=2(NH12), 7(NH76)|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130514123311/http://www.nhai.org/Doc/23june12/NH_NH%20wise.pdf|archive-date=14 May 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> National Highway No.27 is a part of East-West Corridor (Porbandar - Silchar) and National Highway No.52 connects Punjab to Karnataka (Sangrur, Punjab—Ankola, Karnataka). The total road length in Kota district is 2,052 km as of March 2011. There are also three upcoming expressway projects in the form of Delhi–Mumbai Expressway (Via Kota, Rajasthan, and Vadodara), Kota–Hyderabad Expressway (Via Indore) and Chambal Expressway.

===Railways=== thumb|Entrance of Kota Railway station Kota is well connected to all the major cities of India with rail. Kota Junction is one of the divisions in West Central Railway.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mapsofindia.com/railways/west-central-zone.html|title=West Central Railway|work=Maps of India|access-date=2016-06-05|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160520170540/http://www.mapsofindia.com/railways/west-central-zone.html|archive-date=20 May 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> It is a station on the New Delhi–Mumbai main line. There are four railway stations within Kota and in its vicinity. One Substation of East Kota City is Sogariya(Kota Bypass) Railway Station and Another suburban station of South Kota city is Dakaniya Talav railway station which has a stoppage of Avadh Express, Dehradun Express and Ranthambore Express.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indiarailinfo.com/arrivals/dakaniya-talav-dknt/890|title=Arrivals at DKNT/Dakaniya Talav|publisher=Indianrailinfo.com|access-date=2016-06-05|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160624111430/http://indiarailinfo.com/arrivals/dakaniya-talav-dknt/890|archive-date=24 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

The city is a halt for over 182 trains,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://runningstatus.in/livetrains/KOTA|title=Arrivals at Kota Junction|publisher=RunningStatus.IN|access-date=2018-08-31|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180831141317/https://runningstatus.in/livetrains/KOTA|archive-date=31 August 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> including Mumbai Rajdhani Express, August Kranti Rajdhani Express, Thiruvananthapuram Rajdhani Express, Madgaon Rajdhani Express, Mumbai New Delhi Duronto Express, Golden Temple Mail, Paschim Express, Bandra Terminus-Hazrat Nizamuddin Garib Rath Express, Kevadiya–Hazrat Nizamuddin Gujarat Sampark Kranti Express, Gujarat Sampark Kranti Express, Maharashtra Sampark Kranti Express, Goa Sampark Kranti Express, Kerala Sampark Kranti Express, Indore–Jaipur Express, Gangaur SuperFast Express, Mewar Express, Dayodaya Express, Jodhpur – Indore Intercity, Hazrat Nizamuddin - Indore Express, Garbha Express, Marusagar Express (Ajmer – Ernakulam Express / Ernakulam Express), Jaipur–Mysore Superfast Express, Swaraj Express, Chennai Central–Jaipur Superfast Express, Coimbatore–Jaipur Superfast Express, Jodhpur – Puri Express, Bandra Terminus–Gorakhpur Avadh Express, Bandra Terminus–Muzaffarpur Avadh Express, Jodhpur – Bhopal Express.

The Delhi—Mumbai railway line passes through the Kota Junction. The district has 148.83 km of railway line in the Kota – Ruthia section, 98.72 km on Nagda—Mathura (Mumbai-Delhi) section and 24.26 km on Kota —Chittorgarh section.

A broad-gauge railway facility between Kota and Jodhpur via Jaipur exists.

===Airways=== Kota Airport is a civil airport serving Kota, Rajasthan, India. Spread over 447 acres, Kota Airport was originally built by the royal family of the princely state of Kota and was taken over by the government in 1951. This Airport Also Known As Rajputana Airport. Originally serviced by Indian Airlines Dakota aircraft and later by Vayudoot and Jagson Airlines, shutdown of major industries and Kota becoming a major railway junction effected decreased demand for air transport and the withdrawal of the airlines.<ref name=ie05>{{cite news|title=Indian Air Farce|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/oldStory/62777/|access-date=4 February 2012|newspaper=The Indian Express|date=16 January 2005}}</ref> Kota Airport has had no scheduled services operating since 1999.<ref name=toi11>{{cite news|title=Airports fail to lure airlines|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/-Airports-fail-to-lure-airlines/articleshow/10285523.cms?|access-date=4 February 2012|newspaper=The Times of India|date=9 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111009203816/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/-Airports-fail-to-lure-airlines/articleshow/10285523.cms|archive-date=9 October 2011|url-status=live}}</ref> The nearest international airport is Jaipur International Airport situated around 240 km away from Kota.

The development of Kota greenfield airport has been approved 15 kilometres outside of the city.

==Sports== [[file:Kota stadium.jpg|thumb|400px|Jay Kaylon Cricket Stadium]] The city is home to Jay Kaylon Cricket Stadium located in Nayapura area. Among several matches, six Ranji Trophy matches have been played in the stadium.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://cricketarchive.com/Archive/Grounds/14/1098_f.html|title=First-Class Matches played at Jay Kaylon Ground, Kota|publisher=Cricket archive|access-date=21 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160610131008/http://cricketarchive.com/Archive/Grounds/14/1098_f.html|archive-date=10 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://cricketarchive.com/Archive/Grounds/14/1098.html|title=Jay Kaylon Ground, Kota|publisher=Cricket archive|access-date=21 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320222211/http://www.cricketarchive.com/Archive/Grounds/14/1098.html|archive-date=20 March 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> The stadium also hosted RCL T20 2016, an inter state cricket league with six participating teams.<ref>{{Cite news|date = 2016-02-15|title = Video : Kota mem ti-20 ka romanch aj se|script-title = hi:Video : कोटा में टी-20 का रोमांच आज से|trans-title = Video: The excitement of T20 today at Kota|url = http://rajasthanpatrika.patrika.com/story/rajasthan/the-excitement-of-t20-today-at-kota-rcl-t20-1875549.html|work = Rajasthan Patrika|access-date = 2016-02-16|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160617012857/http://rajasthanpatrika.patrika.com/story/rajasthan/the-excitement-of-t20-today-at-kota-rcl-t20-1875549.html|archive-date = 17 June 2016|url-status = dead|language = hi}}</ref>The University of Kota Sports Board lists facilities for indoor and outdoor sports, including basketball, badminton, judo, wrestling, gymnastics, squash, kabaddi, football, hockey, cricket, table tennis, and athletics.<ref>{{cite web |title=Sports Board |website=University of Kota |url=https://uok.ac.in/Sports-Board |access-date=2 May 2026}}</ref>

== Media == === Television === There are five major regional TV Channels in Kota.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indfy.com/rajasthan/media.html|title=Media of Rajasthan|publisher=INDFY|access-date=2016-05-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160616194549/http://www.indfy.com/rajasthan/media.html|archive-date=16 June 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> * DD Rajasthan * Media House Rajasthan(MHR News) * ETV Rajasthan * India news Rajasthan * Jan TV

A wide range of other Hindi, English, and other language channels are accessible via cable subscription and direct-broadcast satellite services. Dish TV, Tata Sky, Radiant Digitek, Airtel digital TV are entertainment services in Kota.

=== Newspapers === Major daily newspapers in Kota<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.advertisementindia.com/NewspapersArea.aspx |title=Search Newspapers by Area |publisher=Advertisement India |access-date=24 May 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160520143342/http://www.advertisementindia.com/NewspapersArea.aspx |archive-date=20 May 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dainiknavajyoti.com/|title=Dainik Navajyoti|publisher=dainiknavajyoti.com|access-date=27 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150801073827/http://dainiknavajyoti.com/|archive-date=1 August 2015|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bhaskar.com/local/rajasthan/kota/|title=Dainik Bhaskar Kota|publisher=bhaskar.com|access-date=24 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160518104258/http://www.bhaskar.com/rajasthan/kota/|archive-date=18 May 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> include: * Rajasthan Patrika (Hindi) * Dainik Bhaskar (Hindi) * Dainik Navajyoti (Hindi)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rajasthandirect.com/media/newspapers/dainik-navajyoti|title=Dainik Navajyoti|publisher=Rajasthan Direct|access-date=24 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160704104453/http://www.rajasthandirect.com/media/newspapers/dainik-navajyoti|archive-date=4 July 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> *Chambal Sandesh (Hindi)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://chambalsandesh.com/|title=Chambal Sandesh Website|access-date=4 December 2020|archive-date=1 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201201210445/https://chambalsandesh.com/|url-status=dead}}</ref>

=== Radio === There are five radio stations in Kota, with four broadcasting on the FM band, and one All India Radio station broadcasting on the AM band. * All India Radio (102.0 MHz)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://airkota.com/airkota.php|title=All India Radio, Kota|publisher=airkota.com|access-date=24 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160812061039/http://airkota.com/airkota.php|archive-date=12 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> * Big FM (92.7 MHz)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.927bigfm.com/city.php?id=25|title=92.7 BIG FM Kota|publisher=92.7 BIG FM|access-date=24 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160611080921/http://www.927bigfm.com/city.php?id=25|archive-date=11 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> * My FM (94.3 MHz)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.afaqs.com/news/company_briefs/index.html?id=28875_Kota+is+94.3+MY+FM%92s+fifth+station+in+Rajasthan+&+16th+nationally|title=Kota is 94.3 MY FM's fifth station in Rajasthan & 16th nationally|publisher=Afaqs|access-date=24 May 2016|date=1 February 2008}}</ref> * FM Tadka (95.0 MHz)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rajasthandirect.com/media/radio-channels/95-fm-tadka|title=95 FM Tadka|publisher=Rajasthan direct|access-date=24 May 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160604022856/http://www.rajasthandirect.com/media/radio-channels/95-fm-tadka|archive-date=4 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> * Radio City (91.1 MHz)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.planetradiocity.com/radiocity/city/kota|title=Radio City 91.1 FM Kota|publisher=Planet RadioCity|access-date=16 January 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170118032717/https://www.planetradiocity.com/radiocity/city/kota|archive-date=18 January 2017|url-status=usurped}}</ref>

==Notable people== alt=|thumb|Chambal River, as seen in Kota at Garadiya Mahadev   *Ajay Ahuja *Aniruddh Singh *Bhim Singh II *Bhupendra Jadawat *Bhuvaneshwari Kumari *Bhuvnesh Chaturvedi *Brijraj Singh *Dau Dayal Joshi *Hari Kumar Audichya *Ijyaraj Singh *Krishana Kumar Goyal *Lalit Kishore Chaturvedi *Nandini Gupta *Nikita Lalwani *Om Birla *Onkarlal Berwa *Pramod Maheshwari *Raghuveer Singh Koshal *Shail Hada *Shanti Kumar Dhariwal *Shiv Kumari of Kotah *Taj Haider *Umed Singh II *Vinod Kumar Bansal

==References== {{Reflist}}

==Further reading== * Tod James ''Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan: Or, The Central and Western Rajpoot States of India'' Published 2001 Asian Educational Services {{ISBN|81-206-1289-2}} pp. 407–690

==External links== {{commons category|Kota, Rajasthan}} *[http://kota.rajasthan.gov.in/content/raj/kota/en/home.html# Official website of Kota District] {{Subject bar|portal1=India |commons=yes |s=yes}}

Category:Kota, Rajasthan Category:Metropolitan cities in India Category:Smart cities in India Category:Bundi State Category:Suicides in India Category:Suicides by hanging in India Category:Suicides by jumping in India Category:Mental health in India Category:Suicide in India Category:Controversies in India Category:Cram schools in India Category:Education in India Category:Education in Rajasthan Category:Drug-related suicides in India Category:Fraud in India Category:Scandals in India Category:Corruption in India Category:Political scandals in India Category:Political corruption in India Category:Political controversies in India