New Delhi: The Central government has intensified efforts to improve school enrolment and reduce dropout rates across the country through a series of initiatives aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The measures focus on strengthening school infrastructure, expanding residential education, enhancing student welfare and using technology to monitor learning outcomes.
The strategy aims to make schools more accessible while ensuring that children, particularly those from disadvantaged communities, remain in the education system.
Focus on better infrastructure and student support
As part of the initiative, the government is opening new schools, upgrading existing institutions to the Senior Secondary level and improving infrastructure to create a better learning environment.
Special emphasis has been placed on girls’ education through the expansion of Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) up to Class 12. Residential schools and hostels are also being established under the PM-JANMAN and DAJGUA schemes to benefit students from underserved and remote areas.
To improve access, eligible students are being provided transport allowances and escort facilities. Seasonal hostels, residential camps and enrolment drives are also being organised to ensure children from migrant families and remote communities continue their education.
The government is also supporting students through free textbooks, uniforms, vocational education and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) facilities in schools. Under the PM POSHAN scheme, children from Balvatika to Class 8 receive hot cooked meals to improve nutrition, encourage regular attendance and reduce dropouts.
Technology to monitor student progress
The Centre has established Vidya Samiksha Kendras (VSKs) to enable real-time monitoring of school education. The digital platform helps track student attendance, monitor school transfers, identify potential dropouts and assess learning outcomes, allowing authorities to take timely corrective measures.
Additionally, the government has introduced the APAAR ID under the ‘One Nation, One Student ID’ programme. The 12-digit identification number, linked to Aadhaar, is designed to create a lifelong academic record for every student, ensuring seamless tracking of their educational journey across schools and improving continuity in learning.
The government believes these combined measures will strengthen the education system and help ensure that every child has access to quality schooling.