Why in news?
A comprehensive Modular Survey conducted by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) during April–June 2025 found that school dropout rates have halved over the past two years.
About the survey
- The survey is part of the National Sample Survey’s modular approach, where short modules are run on specific topics between major rounds. The 2025 module focused on education.
- Data were collected from households across India on enrolment, dropout reasons and education expenditure.
Key findings
- Secondary level dropout declined from around 12% in 2023 to roughly 6% in 2025. Similar declines were observed at middle and preparatory levels.
- The gender gap narrowed, with more girls staying in school. Public schools recorded lower dropout rates than private institutions.
- Household spending on education is rising, particularly for private tutoring and digital devices.
Reasons for improvement
- Government schemes like Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan and mid‑day meals have improved access and retention.
- Scholarships, girls’ stipends and conditional cash transfers encourage continued education.
- The National Education Policy 2020 emphasises foundational literacy, continuous assessment and bridging pre‑school and school, reducing dropouts at transition points.
- Digital initiatives such as DIKSHA and PM e‑Vidya offered supplementary learning resources during disruptions.
Challenges
- Secondary education remains a weak link; many adolescents leave school to support family income or due to lack of interest.
- Rising private school fees and associated costs may push some families out of formal education.
- Rural areas still face infrastructure gaps like separate toilets for girls, safe transport and shortage of trained teachers.
Long‑term outlook
- If access and affordability continue to improve, India could achieve near universal completion of secondary education by 2030.
- Attention must turn to learning outcomes, teacher training, digital readiness and reducing dropout among vulnerable groups.
Relevance for UPSC
The findings are pertinent for GS‑II (Social Justice), GS‑I (Society) and GS‑III (Economic Development), highlighting the link between education policy and social equity.