School-dropout Scenario in India and Impact of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009

Abstract

Education is essential for every child to gain knowledge, develop better understanding about life to deal with various challenges in life and to become a responsible and productive citizen. However, a large number of children in India either do not get the opportunity for study or become school dropout at an early stage because of various reasons. The scenario of school dropout is quite disturbing in developing countries like India as compared to industrialised countries. This chapter focuses on the role of the Right to Education Act 2009 (alternatively known as The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009) in ensuring education for all children in addition to discussing the research-based evidence on school dropouts and various reasons behind it. The chapter also discusses category-wise school-dropout rate in India during 2015–2020 at primary, upper-primary and secondary levels. A comparative picture of school dropout rate at different levels before and after the enactment of The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act 2009 is presented indicating positive impact of the Act. Finally, the chapter focuses on various preventive measures for controlling school dropout in India through creating a positive and safe school environment, organizing teachers training for quality teaching and involving parents and larger community in various developmental programs of schools.