स्कूलों में छात्रों की संख्या का घटना चिन्ताजनक

Mon Jan 06 10:00:00 IST 2025: ## School Enrollment in India Decreases Despite Rise in Number of Schools

**New Delhi, India** – A recent report by the Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE+) under the Ministry of Education reveals a concerning trend in India’s education system: a decline in school enrollment despite a rise in the number of schools.

The report indicates a net increase of approximately 5,000 schools, bringing the total number of schools in India to 14,89,115 across primary, secondary, and senior secondary levels. However, student enrollment has decreased by 3.7 million between 2022-23 and 2023-24, dropping from 26.52 crore to 24.80 crore. This decline affects all categories of students, including boys and girls, and across various social groups like OBCs, SCs, STs, and minorities. The dropout rate is particularly alarming at the secondary level, rising to 10.9% from 5.2% at the middle school level.

While the report highlights improvements in school infrastructure, such as increased access to electricity (91.7% of schools) and potable water and sanitation facilities (over 98%), significant challenges remain. A lack of computers (absent in 60% of schools) and internet access (less than 50% of schools) are major concerns, especially considering the increasing need for digital literacy.

The reasons for the decline in enrollment are multifaceted. Poverty is a significant factor, although government initiatives to support underprivileged students often fail to reach their intended recipients effectively. Furthermore, complex admission processes, lack of financial aid, and insufficient support for students from disadvantaged backgrounds contribute to the problem. The report also points to a potential lack of engagement with the education system among certain segments of the population.

Experts emphasize the urgent need for transformative change in the Indian education sector. Addressing the issue requires a multi-pronged approach, tackling poverty, improving access to resources, enhancing teacher training, and simplifying admission processes for marginalized groups. The government’s efforts to modernize the education system and introduce vocational training are positive steps, but sustained commitment and efficient implementation are crucial to reverse the worrying trend of declining school enrollment and ensure a brighter future for India’s youth.