Girls’ Education at Elementary Level in India: An Analysis of Progress, Challenges and Policy Impacts

Author(s): Urmil Kanderi and Anand Swarup Singh Kanderi

Abstract:

Education serves as the cornerstone of women’s empowerment and national development. Since India's independence, when the female literacy rate was a mere 8.9%, significant progress has been made, with current figures reaching approximately 71%. Education enhances women's quality of life by fostering critical thinking, creativity, and a range of cognitive and practical skills. It equips them with knowledge in hygiene, health, mathematics, languages, the arts, and sciences-empowering them to contribute meaningfully to their families and society. Girls, in particular, benefit from a multidisciplinary approach to education that nurtures confidence, independence, and decision-making abilities. These competencies are essential for overcoming everyday challenges and participating fully in public and private life. The establishments of girls’ primary schools play a significant role in providing a safer learning environment, especially in contexts where educational opportunities for girls remain limited. Despite progress, numerous challenges-social, economic, and infrastructural-continue to hinder universal access to quality education for girls. This paper examines the current status and persistent barriers in girls’ primary education in India, highlighting the need for inclusive strategies and sustained policy interventions.

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Pages: 127-131     |    1 View     |    0 Download