News Desk
NEW DELHI — India’s education landscape is witnessing steady progress, with school enrollments expanding and infrastructure improving, according to the Economic Survey 2024-25 presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The report underscores the central role of education and human capital development in India’s growth, aligning with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
India’s vast school system serves 248 million students across 1.47 million schools, supported by 9.8 million teachers. Government schools educate half of all students, while private institutions account for nearly a third of enrollments. The country has made significant strides toward achieving universal school enrollment, with a Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) of 93% at the primary level. Efforts continue to bridge gaps at the secondary and higher secondary levels, where GER stands at 77.4% and 56.2%, respectively.
Infrastructure has seen notable improvements. Schools with internet access have more than doubled in four years, reaching 53.9% in 2023-24. Computer access also expanded, enhancing digital learning opportunities. Meanwhile, the school dropout rate has declined, with only 1.9% of students leaving at the primary level.
The government is implementing NEP 2020 through initiatives like NIPUN Bharat, which promotes foundational literacy, and Samagra Shiksha, which supports inclusive education. Early childhood learning has also gained focus, with new programs such as Aadharshila and Navchetana offering structured developmental activities for young children.
Skill-based education is a growing priority, reflecting India’s ambition to equip students for an evolving job market driven by automation and artificial intelligence. Higher education enrollments have surged, with 43.3 million students enrolled in 2021-22—nearly a 27% increase since 2014. The government aims to raise GER in higher education to 50% by 2035, ensuring broader access to universities and research institutions.
As India strengthens its education system, investments in technology, teacher training, and student support signal a future where learning is more inclusive, digital, and skills-driven—paving the way for a globally competitive workforce.
