NEWS – The Ministry of Education released the Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) 2024–25 report, presenting major progress in school education across India. For the first time, the total number of teachers has crossed the 1 crore mark, indicating strong systemic growth.

HIGHLIGHTS

1. Teacher Strength and Pupil-Teacher Ratio

• Teachers Cross 1 Crore Mark: 1,01,22,420 teachers in 2024–25, a 6.7% rise since 2022–23.
• PTR Improvement: Ratios at Foundational (10), Preparatory (13), Middle (17), Secondary (21), all better than NEP’s benchmark of 1:30.
• Significance: Better teacher availability enhances quality of learning and reduces regional disparities.

2. Dropout and Retention Trends

• Dropout Rates Decline: Preparatory – 2.3%, Middle – 3.5%, Secondary – 8.2% (consistent decline since 2022–23).
• Retention Rates Rise: Foundational (98.9%), Preparatory (92.4%), Middle (82.8%), Secondary (47.2%).
• Impact: Expansion of secondary schools and improved student support mechanisms drive higher retention.

3. Enrolment and Transition Rates

• Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER): Middle – 90.3%, Secondary – 68.5% (notable improvement from 2023–24).
• Transition Rates: Foundational → Preparatory (98.6%), Preparatory → Middle (92.2%), Middle → Secondary (86.6%).
• Implication: Smoother academic progression and reduced dropouts at transitional stages.

4. Structural Reforms in Schools

• Decline in Single-Teacher Schools: Reduced by ~6% to 1.04 lakh.
• Zero Enrolment Schools: Sharp 38% reduction (7,993 schools).
• Rationale: Improved rationalisation of teacher deployment under UDISE+.

5. Infrastructure Development

• Digital Access:
  • Schools with Computers – 64.7% (up from 57.2%).
  • Schools with Internet – 63.5% (up from 53.9%).
• Basic Facilities:
  • Electricity – 93.6%, Drinking Water – 99.3%, Girls’ Toilets – 97.3%, Handwash – 95.9%.
• Inclusivity: 54.9% of schools equipped with ramps and handrails for disabled students.

6. Gender Inclusivity in Education

• Female Teachers: 54.2% of workforce, reflecting better gender balance.
• Girls’ Enrolment: 48.3% (steady rise from 48.0% in 2022–23).
• Impact: Greater female participation strengthens inclusive and gender-sensitive education.

ABOUT UDISE+

• Largest Education Database: Covers 14.72 lakh schools, 98 lakh teachers, 24.8 crore children.
• Data Validation: Compiled at school level, verified at block, district, and state levels before certification.
• Utility: Trusted source for policy-making and monitoring educational progress.