The education ministry on Thursday released the Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) 2024–25 report, highlighting improvements in India’s school education system.
For the first time since UDISE+ began in the 2018–19 academic year, the total number of teachers in the country has crossed the one-crore mark, reflecting a 6.7 percent increase over 2022–23.
This rise in teachers has improved pupil-teacher ratios across all levels. As of 2024–25, the ratios stand at 10 students per teacher at the foundational level, 13 at the preparatory level, 17 at the middle level, and 21 at the secondary level, all well below the NEP 2020 recommendation of maximum 30 students per teacher.
Dropout rates have also declined compared to 2022–23. Preparatory-level dropouts fell from 3.7% in 2022–23 to 2.3% in 2024–25, middle-level dropouts from 5.2% to 3.5%, and secondary-level dropouts from 10.9% to 8.2%, showing better retention.
Gross enrolment ratios (GER) increased over the year as well: middle-level GER rose to 90.3% in 2024–25, while secondary-level GER reached 68.5%, reflecting improved access to education. Transition rates between foundational, preparatory, middle, and secondary levels also showed gains, signaling stronger progression through the system.
The report also recorded a decline in single-teacher and zero-enrolment schools. Single-teacher schools dropped from 110,971 in 2022–23 to 104,125 in 2024–25, while zero-enrolment schools fell from 12,954 to 7,993.
Infrastructure improvements were notable. Digital access increased, with computer availability at 64.7% and internet connectivity at 63.5% of schools. Electricity coverage reached 93.6%, drinking water access 99.3%, and handwashing facilities 95.9%. Accessibility features like ramps and handrails rose to 54.9% of schools.
Gender equity in education is also improving. Female representation among teachers rose to 54.2%, while girls’ enrolment increased slightly to 48.3% in 2024–25.
The UDISE+ 2024–25 report highlights India’s progress in improving access, quality, and inclusivity in school education, driven by targeted interventions and investment in both infrastructure and human resources.