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NEW DELHI: In a major step towards strengthening India’s education system, the Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL) under the Ministry of Education has announced a nationwide initiative to identify and enrol out-of-school and dropout children. The move aligns with the vision of achieving 100% Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) by 2030, as outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The initiative also supports the broader goal of building an inclusive and self-reliant education framework in the country.
Recent data highlights the scale of the challenge. According to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2023–24, nearly 2 crore children aged 14–18 are currently out of school. Additionally, around 11% of students in Classes 3 to 8 are not enrolled, and over 50 lakh students fail board exams each year. These figures underline the need for flexible and accessible education systems that can help students return to learning and continue their academic journey.
To address this, the government is strengthening the role of the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS), which offers flexible learning through open and distance education. NIOS provides features such as on-demand examinations, multiple chances to clear subjects, vocational courses and inclusive support for diverse learners, making it a practical alternative for students unable to attend regular schools due to social, economic or geographical reasons. Its certification is recognised at par with other education boards, ensuring continuity in higher education and career pathways.
As part of the initiative, NIOS will collaborate with states and union territories to identify out-of-school children using district-level data and conduct enrolment drives. A new outreach programme, “NIOS Mitra,” will be launched to support last-mile connectivity, where trained facilitators will guide students and families through enrolment and academic support. The government also plans to expand infrastructure by establishing NIOS study and examination centres across blocks, including in PM SHRI schools, Kendriya Vidyalayas and government senior secondary schools. These efforts aim to make education more accessible, especially for marginalised communities, and ensure that no student is left behind.
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