Massive Student Shift from Government to Private Schools
The Centre's Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) database confirms a steady shift of students from government to private schools across India. Nearly 86 lakh students have moved out of government schools in just two years, while private unaided recognised schools have absorbed an additional 88 lakh students over the same period. The data, covering school infrastructure, enrolment, and teacher statistics, reveals a marginal decline in overall school enrolment from the foundational to the secondary level, dropping from 24.8 crore in 2023-24 to 24.72 crore in 2025-26.
Sharp Decline in Government School Enrolment
Government school enrolment dropped sharply from 12.75 crore to 11.89 crore during this period. The numbers indicate that despite shortcomings and fading appeal, government schools remain the default option for a vast majority of students. This adds to the responsibility of governments to prioritise the sector. According to ground reports, quality education remains an unfulfilled promise.
Positive Trends: Dropout Rates and Infrastructure
There are positive developments as well. The dropout rate has declined across preparatory and secondary levels. Zero-enrolment schools have fallen from 12,954 to 5,663, and single-teacher schools have decreased from 1.11 lakh to 1.01 lakh. The teacher workforce now stands at 1.03 crore, improving the overall pupil-teacher ratio from 25 to 24. The uptick in girls' representation to 48.4 per cent is encouraging.
Infrastructure Claims: Caution Required
Some claims in the report sound too good to be true. It states that 58.2 per cent of schools are equipped with ramps and handrails for students with disabilities, and 98.5 per cent have toilets for girls. Handwashing stations are available in 96.9 per cent of schools, while 99.5 per cent have access to safe drinking water. However, the mere provision of a facility does not mean it is functional or being put to optimum use.
Chandigarh a Top Performer
Chandigarh creditably retains its position as a top performer in the UDISE+ data. However, the UT Administrator's message to keep raising the bar is worth paying heed to, as even top performers must continuously improve to meet the challenges of quality education.
