UDISE+ 2024-25 Report: Teachers Cross 1 Crore Mark, Dropouts Decline, Digital Infrastructure Expands

New Delhi – The Ministry of Education has released the Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) 2024–25 report, presenting a comprehensive overview of the current status of India’s school education sector. The findings reflect significant progress in teacher recruitment, infrastructure development, student retention, and gender representation.

For the first time, the total number of teachers in India has crossed the 1 crore mark, reaching 1,01,22,420 in 2024–25. This represents a 6.7% rise compared to 2022–23. The steady growth is expected to enhance student-teacher ratios and reduce regional disparities in education delivery.

The Pupil-Teacher Ratio (PTR) has shown marked improvement across levels—10 at the foundational stage, 13 at the preparatory, 17 at the middle, and 21 at the secondary. These figures are better than the National Education Policy’s benchmark of 30:1, allowing for more personalized learning.

Dropout rates have continued to fall at all stages. Compared to last year, the preparatory level declined from 3.7% to 2.3%, middle from 5.2% to 3.5%, and secondary from 10.9% to 8.2%. This steady improvement points to better retention efforts and student support systems.

Retention levels improved across the board—98.9% at foundational, 92.4% at preparatory, 82.8% at middle, and 47.2% at secondary. Transition rates also saw an upward push: 98.6% from foundational to preparatory, 92.2% from preparatory to middle, and 86.6% from middle to secondary.

Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) moved upward with 90.3% at the middle level and 68.5% at the secondary level, reflecting increased access and participation in higher classes.

Government efforts have reduced the number of single-teacher schools by 6% and zero-enrolment schools by 38% compared to last year, strengthening the learning ecosystem and ensuring effective utilization of teaching staff

The share of schools with computer access jumped to 64.7% and internet connectivity to 63.5% in 2024–25. Meanwhile, 93.6% schools now have electricity, 97.3% girls’ toilets, 96.2% boys’ toilets, and 99.3% drinking water facilities. Playgrounds, libraries, and ramps with handrails have also seen steady increases, boosting inclusivity and student welfare.

The report highlights rising female participation in teaching, with women now forming 54.2% of the workforce. Girls’ enrolment has also edged up to 48.3%, signaling ongoing progress in gender equity.

With enhanced teacher strength, improved PTR, declining dropout rates, and stronger digital infrastructure, the UDISE+ 2024–25 findings underline a positive trajectory for India’s school education system.