There has been a considerable decline in school dropout rate from 80 lakh in 2009 to 30 lakh in 2012, thanks to the success of the central government’s flagship programme — Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan.
The scheme aims for universalization of elementary education in a time-bound manner. It is mandated by a constitution making free and compulsory education to the children of 6 to 14 years of age group has been made a fundamental right.
The net enrollment ratio at the primary level has also increased to 99.8 per cent since the launch of the scheme, a government statement said.
The Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and other initiatives like the mid-day meals have led to gender parity at the primary level.
Nearly 3.60 lakh girls, from the educationally backward blocks of India, are studying in over 3500 Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas, under the scheme.
