India / Education

Independence, India inherited an education system, which was not only quantitatively small but was also characterized by regional, gender, caste and structural imbalances. Only 14 per cent were literate and only one out of three children were enrolled in primary schools. Today the National Policy on Education aims at free education for all up to the age of 14.

Literacy levels have increased. In 1991 the figure stood at 52.2% and within seven years. It rose by almost ten per cent. More people are attending schools and other literacy program; in fact the figure has more than doubled from the baseline of 42.6% in 1951. The growth is most apparent in the upper primary level where the difference is as much as 50%. Hearteningly, the percentage of girls enrolled has simultaneously increased, though concurring with the national trend, this is slightly higher at the primary level. Nutritious food, regular immunization and medical check-ups in schools is provided under the Integrated Child Development Scheme.

Adult literacy is also being addressed, with plans to make the nation fully literate by 2005. By 1999, the National Literacy Mission aims to provide functional literacy to 100 million-non literate in them 15-35 age group.

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