The NSS 80th Round (2025) highlights a worrying trend in India’s basic education landscape. Despite the constitutional guarantee of the Right to Free and Compulsory Education for children aged 6 to 14 under Article 21A and the ambitions of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, household expenditure on education is rising, and access is becoming increasingly unequal due to the growing reliance on private schools and coaching.

1. Enrolment Trends: Public vs Private Schools

At the national level, school enrolment remains divided between government and private institutions:

• Government schools: 55.9% of students

• Private aided schools: 11.3%

• Private unaided schools: 31.9%

Urban–Rural Divide

• Urban areas: 51.4% of students attend private schools

• Rural areas: Only 24.3% of students attend private schools

Gender Gap

• Private school enrolment shows a modest gender difference: 34% of boys versus 29.5% of girls.

Rising Private Enrolment Over Time

• Compared with the 75th NSS Round (2017–18), private enrolment has increased across all education levels in both rural and urban areas.

• This indicates a growing preference for private education, which is often associated with perceived higher quality, despite higher costs.

2. Cost of Education

Even in government schools, a significant proportion of students pay fees:

• Rural government schools: 25.3% of students pay fees

• Urban government schools: 34.7% of students pay fees

In contrast, 98% of private school students, both in rural and urban areas, pay course fees.

Comparison with Household Income

• Pre-primary private schooling can cost as much as the monthly income of the poorest 5% of households.

• Higher secondary private schooling can match the monthly income of households in the third income decile.

These figures show that education has become a heavy financial burden, even at the basic level.

3. Private Coaching: Hidden Cost of Learning

Private tutoring has become a widespread parallel education system:

• Incidence of private coaching:

  • Rural areas: 25.5% of children take private tutoring

  • Urban areas: 30.7% of children take private tutoring

• Participation increases with grade level, rising from 10–13% at pre-primary to over 40% at higher secondary.

Expenditure on Private Coaching

• Average annual cost: ₹7,066 in rural areas and ₹13,026 in urban areas.

• This adds significantly to the already high cost of schooling.

Socio-Economic Correlates of Private Tutoring and Educational Inequality

The NSS 80th Round (2025) reveals that the rising reliance on private tutoring and schooling is closely linked to socio-economic status, and it has significant implications for cost burden, inequality, and social mobility.

1. Cost Burden and Inequality

The survey shows that private school students pay up to nine times more than government school students. The financial burden is particularly high for lower-income families, who often have to cut back on essentials to afford private schooling or tutoring.

Urban households, especially in states like Telangana and Delhi, spend significantly more on education, including tuition fees, transport, and digital devices.

Implication: The high cost of private schooling and tutoring reinforces existing socio-economic divides, making access to quality education heavily dependent on household income.

2. Policy Blind Spots

Despite its prevalence, private tutoring remains largely unregulated. While the National Education Policy (NEP 2020) recognizes the problem, there is limited oversight or actionable regulation of the coaching industry.

The lack of affordable, high-quality public schooling forces many families toward expensive private alternatives, further reinforcing socio-economic inequality.

3. Parental Aspirations and Social Mobility

Families with higher household income, parental education, and urban residence often view private tutoring as an investment in academic success and social prestige.

Ironically, many private school teachers are underpaid and underqualified, despite the high fees charged by private schools. This compels parents to spend additional money on private coaching to ensure their children’s academic competitiveness.

Implication: Private tutoring has become a necessary supplement, particularly in private schools, for families aiming for upward social mobility.

4. Inequality and the Decline of Public Schooling

Although free education is a constitutional right, costly private education is increasingly the norm, perpetuating inequality.

• Affluent families can afford private schools and tutoring, gaining access to better learning outcomes.

• Poorer families are often limited to underfunded public schools, resulting in divergent educational outcomes.

Result: India’s basic education system is becoming stratified along socio-economic lines, undermining the principle of equitable access to quality education.

Constitutional Provisions on Education in India

Education in India is governed by multiple provisions in the Constitution, spanning Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, Fundamental Duties, Official Language provisions, and the Union-State legislative lists.

1. Fundamental Rights

Article	Provision
21A	Right to compulsory education for all children aged 6 to 14 years.
28	Freedom regarding attendance at religious instruction or worship in certain educational institutions.
30	Right of minorities to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.

2. Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)

Article	Provision
41	Right to work, education, and public assistance in certain cases.
45	Provision for free and compulsory education for children; also emphasizes early childhood care and education for children below six years.

3. Fundamental Duties

Article	Provision
51A	Responsibility of a parent or guardian to provide educational opportunities to their child or ward aged 6–14 years.

4. Official Language Provisions

Article	Provision
350A	States shall provide adequate facilities for instruction in the mother tongue at the primary stage for children belonging to linguistic minority groups. The President may issue directions to the States to ensure this provision.

5. Union-State Legislative Lists (Schedule 7)

Education-related responsibilities are distributed across the Union, State, and Concurrent lists:

Union List:

• Institutions like Banaras Hindu University, Aligarh Muslim University, Delhi University

• Institutions of National Importance

• Scientific, technical, professional, and vocational education funded by the Government of India

• Promotion of research and determination of standards in higher education

Concurrent List:

• Education (including technical education)

• Medical education and universities

• Vocational and technical training

• Agricultural education

State List:

• States are responsible for administration and regulation of schools and primary/secondary education within the state.

Ministry of Education in India

The Ministry of Education oversees education at all levels and has two main departments:

Department	Responsibilities
Department of School Education & Literacy	Focuses on the development of school education and literacy, including universalization of education.
Department of Higher Education	Responsible for higher education systems, research, and bringing world-class opportunities in higher education to India.

Challenges and Issues in the Indian Education System

The Indian education system faces multiple challenges that hinder its ability to provide equitable, quality, and accessible education. These challenges span funding, teaching quality, infrastructure, and privatization, among others.

1. Lack of Resources and Funding

One of the most pressing challenges is the insufficient funding of educational programs and institutions.

• According to the Economic Survey 2022–23, the budgetary allocation for education as a percentage of total government expenditure has declined from 10.4% to 9.5% over the past seven years.

• Inadequate funding leads to limited facilities, poor teacher salaries, and lack of educational materials, which directly affect the quality of education.

2. Teaching Quality and Teacher Shortage

The quality of teaching in many institutions remains underdeveloped due to several factors:

• Shortage of qualified teachers, particularly in rural areas.

• Outdated curricula and instructional methods that do not focus on practical or skill-based learning.

• Ineffective teaching-learning methods that fail to engage students.

These issues lead to deprived learning outcomes and a mismatch between education and real-world skills.

3. Traditional Teaching Methods

• Many institutions continue to rely on rote learning and lecture-based teaching.

• Teachers rarely use technology, audio-visual aids, or interactive methods, especially at the pre-primary and primary levels.

• This limits critical thinking, creativity, and digital literacy among students.

4. Privatization of Education

• More than 50% of education in India is delivered through private institutions, many of which operate without government assistance.

• Private providers, motivated by profit maximization, may compromise on the quality of education to reduce costs.

• This trend contributes to rising household expenditure on education and inequality in access between rich and poor families.

5. Inadequate Facilities and Infrastructure

• Many schools, colleges, and training centers lack basic infrastructure such as classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and sanitation facilities.

• Poor infrastructure negatively affects student learning outcomes, teacher effectiveness, and the overall learning environment.

Measures for Improving the Education Ecosystem in India

To enhance the quality, accessibility, and inclusivity of education in India, several measures can be adopted, ranging from teacher incentives to international cooperation and modernized teaching methods.

1. Incentives for Teachers and Researchers

• Attracting and retaining talent in teaching and research is essential to improve education quality.

• Incentives can include better salaries, recognition, career growth opportunities, and research grants.

• Motivated teachers and researchers contribute to higher learning outcomes and innovation in pedagogy.

2. Adoption of Innovative Practices and Technology

• Modern technologies can enhance curriculum delivery, teaching methods, and learning experiences.

• Integration of digital tools, online learning platforms, and interactive multimedia improves engagement and knowledge retention.

• Encourages critical thinking, creativity, and socio-cultural development among students.

3. Mobilization of Resources and Finances

• Increased government funding for education is necessary to address resource gaps.

• Private investment and public-private partnerships (PPP) can supplement government efforts.

• Adequate funding ensures teacher training, curriculum development, and infrastructure improvements.

4. Improved Infrastructure

• Upgrading school and college buildings and providing basic amenities is crucial.

• Modern infrastructure includes laboratories, libraries, digital devices, and accessibility facilities.

• Better infrastructure directly impacts student learning, teacher effectiveness, and overall educational quality.

 

5. Student-Centered and Dynamic Learning Methods

• Education should focus on holistic learning across four dimensions:

  1. Learning to learn – developing the ability to acquire and apply knowledge independently.

  2. Learning to do – acquiring practical skills for real-life applications.

  3. Learning to be – fostering personal development, ethics, and emotional intelligence.

  4. Learning to become – preparing students for lifelong growth, adaptability, and social contribution.

• This approach promotes critical thinking, creativity, and skill development over rote memorization.

6. Decentralization of Education

• Local authorities should be given more control over educational administration and funding.

• Decentralization improves accountability, responsiveness, and day-to-day functioning of schools.

• Local governance ensures that resources and policies are tailored to regional needs.

7. International Cooperation

• Collaboration with global educational institutions can provide knowledge sharing, technical expertise, and financial support.

• Promotes research collaborations, student and faculty exchange programs, and adoption of best practices from other countries.

• Strengthens India’s global competitiveness in education.

8. Shift from Output-Based to Outcome-Based Objectives

• Education should focus on learning outcomes rather than mere enrollment or completion rates.

• Emphasis on skills, critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity ensures holistic development.

• Outcome-based education aligns with the needs of a knowledge-driven economy.

Ongoing Efforts to Improve Public Schooling in India

India has launched several initiatives in recent years to strengthen public education, improve quality, and increase access. These efforts aim to make education inclusive, equitable, and aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

1. Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (2018)

• Integrates three earlier schemes: Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA), and Teacher Education (TE).

• Aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education from pre-primary to Class XII.

• Focuses on universal enrolment, retention, and improving learning outcomes across all levels of school education.

2. PM SHRI Schools (2022)

• Seeks to develop over 14,500 model schools across India.

• Key features:

  • Modern infrastructure including smart classrooms.

  • Holistic, inquiry-based pedagogy aligned with NEP 2020.

  • Emphasis on environmental sustainability and experiential learning.

3. National Digital Education Architecture (NDEAR)

• Aims to create a unified digital infrastructure for education.

• Key components:

  • DIKSHA platform: e-content and teacher training resources.

  • UDISE+: real-time school data collection.

  • Digital learning resources in regional languages to enhance accessibility.

4. Mid-Day Meal Scheme (PM POSHAN)

• Seeks to improve nutritional status and school attendance.

• Benefits over 11 crore children in government and government-aided schools.

• Includes pre-primary children in some states and fortified food to enhance nutrition.

5. Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme (Union Budget 2025–26)

• Provides digital-format textbooks in Indian languages.

• Enhances comprehension and accessibility, especially for students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Way Forward: Strengthening Publicly Funded Schools

• Addressing inequities in education requires urgent systemic reforms.

• Strengthening public schools is crucial to ensure that education remains a right, not a privilege.

• Evidence from the Journal of Development Studies (2024) suggests that:

  • Private tuition is negatively associated with school quality.

  • Students in better government schools rely less on private coaching.

• Key strategies:

  • Improving teaching standards.

  • Upgrading infrastructure.

  • Ensuring accountability and monitoring in public schools.

• These measures can restore public confidence in free education and reduce reliance on costly private tuition.

Conclusion

• India’s constitutional vision of free and universal education remains far from fully realized.

• Education has become one of the largest household expenditures, with rising private school enrolment, high tuition costs, and dependence on private coaching.

• To achieve the NEP 2020 goal of universal education by 2030, India must:

  • Revitalize public schooling.

  • Ensure equitable funding.

  • Uphold the constitutional promise of education for all.

Strengthening public education is essential for equity, quality, and social mobility, ensuring that free education is not a privilege for a few but a right for every child.

 

 

A meteorologist has recently warned of a possible Sudden Stratospheric Warming (SSW) event, which may result in below-average temperatures across parts of the United States later this month. Such events are known to trigger severe winter conditions in mid-latitude regions.

What is Sudden Stratospheric Warming?

Definition

Sudden Stratospheric Warming refers to a rapid and abnormal increase in temperatures in the stratosphere, especially over the polar regions. This warming leads to a weakening or distortion of the polar vortex, a large mass of cold air usually confined near the poles.

Mechanism of Sudden Stratospheric Warming

Role of Rossby Waves

The process begins when large-scale atmospheric waves, called Rossby waves, are pushed upward from the lower atmosphere into the stratosphere.

Disruption of the Polar Vortex

When these Rossby waves become strong enough, they break over the polar vortex, similar to ocean waves breaking on a shore. This causes:

• Weakening of the westerly winds circulating around the polar vortex

• In extreme cases, a reversal of wind direction from westerly to easterly

As a result, the stratosphere warms rapidly.

Movement of Cold Air

The weakening of the polar vortex can lead to its:

• Displacement away from the pole, or

• Splitting into multiple vortices

This allows cold Arctic air to spill southward into the mid-latitudes, leading to cold waves.

Polar Vortex: Key Features

Definition

The polar vortex is a large region of low pressure and extremely cold air that surrounds both the North and South Poles.

Vertical Extent

The polar vortex extends from the tropopause (the boundary between the troposphere and stratosphere) through the stratosphere and into the mesosphere, reaching altitudes of more than 50 km.

Seasonal Behaviour

The polar vortex:

• Exists throughout the year

• Weakens during summer

• Strengthens during winter

During winter, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere, it often expands and influences weather patterns.

Role of Jet Streams

Jet Stream Interaction

The polar vortex interacts with the jet stream, which consists of narrow bands of strong winds flowing at about 30,000 feet (9,100 metres) above the Earth’s surface.

This interaction frequently causes southward movement of cold Arctic air, resulting in extreme winter weather.

Global Impact of SSW Events

Affected Regions

Although commonly associated with the United States, Sudden Stratospheric Warming events also affect:

• Europe

• Asia

These regions may experience cold surges, snowfall, and prolonged winter conditions following an SSW event.

 

 

 

 

The seventh session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) is currently taking place in Nairobi, Kenya. The session focuses on strengthening global cooperation to address pressing environmental challenges and promote sustainable development.

About the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA)

Overview

The UN Environment Assembly is the world’s highest-level decision-making body on environmental matters. It plays a central role in shaping global environmental governance and setting international priorities for environmental protection.

Membership

UNEA has universal membership, comprising all 193 United Nations Member States. In addition, it ensures the full participation of major groups and stakeholders, including civil society, the private sector, and scientific communities.

Meetings

The Assembly convenes the ministers of environment from across the world in Nairobi, Kenya, once every two years. Nairobi also serves as the headquarters of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).

Background and Establishment

UNEA was established in 2012 as an outcome of the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), held in Brazil. Its creation marked an important step in elevating environmental issues to the highest political level within the UN system.

Functions of the UN Environment Assembly

Policy and Agenda Setting

The Assembly:

• Sets the global environmental agenda

• Provides overarching policy guidance

• Defines policy responses to emerging environmental challenges, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution

Review and Guidance

UNEA undertakes:

• Policy review and dialogue

• Exchange of experiences and best practices among countries

• Strategic guidance on the future direction of UNEP

Partnerships and Resource Mobilisation

The Assembly fosters:

• International partnerships to achieve environmental goals

• Mobilisation of financial and technical resources for environmental action

Organisational Structure

UNEA Bureau

The UN Environment Assembly consists of:

• One President

• Eight Vice Presidents

Together, they form the UNEA Bureau, which provides leadership and oversees the functioning of the Assembly.

UNEA-7 (2025)

Theme

The theme of the Seventh UN Environment Assembly (2025) is:
“Advancing sustainable solutions for a resilient planet.”

This theme underscores the need for innovative, inclusive, and science-based solutions to build environmental resilience and achieve sustainable development goals.

Key Outcomes of the Sixth UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-6)

Ministerial Declaration

UNEA-6 reaffirmed global commitment to addressing the “triple planetary crisis”, namely climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. This commitment was formally expressed through the adoption of a Ministerial Declaration, highlighting the urgency of coordinated international action.

Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEA) Day

For the first time, 28 February 2024 was observed as Multilateral Environmental Agreements Day.
This day was dedicated to recognizing the importance of international agreements addressing major environmental challenges, including climate change, biodiversity conservation, and chemical and waste management.

Adoption of Draft Resolutions

UNEA-6 adopted several draft resolutions aimed at strengthening global environmental governance. These included resolutions on:

• Combating sand and dust storms

• Environmentally sound management of chemicals and waste

• International cooperation on air pollution

• Promotion of sustainable lifestyles

These resolutions reflect a comprehensive approach to tackling both local and transboundary environmental issues.

Reports Released at UNEA-6

Global Resource Outlook 2024

The Global Resource Outlook 2024 warned that without decisive global action to curb consumption:

• Extraction of natural resources could increase by 60% from 2020 levels

• Such an increase would significantly exacerbate climate change

• It would also intensify biodiversity loss and risks to human health

The report emphasised the need for a transition towards resource efficiency and sustainable consumption patterns.

Global Waste Management Outlook 2024

The Global Waste Management Outlook 2024 highlighted alarming trends in waste generation and costs:

• Municipal solid waste is projected to rise from 2.3 billion tonnes in 2023 to 3.8 billion tonnes by 2050

• The direct cost of waste management is expected to almost double by 2050, increasing from about USD 252 billion in 2020

The report called for improved waste reduction, recycling, and circular economy practices.

Used Heavy-Duty Vehicles and the Environment Report

This report highlighted:

• The rising emissions from used heavy-duty vehicles

• Their negative impacts on climate, air quality, and public health

It stressed the need for stricter emission norms and sustainable transport solutions, particularly in developing countries.

Awards Announced at UNEA-6

Young Champions of the Earth Award

The Young Champions of the Earth Award, introduced in 2017, is a flagship youth engagement initiative of UNEP.
Under this initiative:

• Young people aged 18–30 years are selected from every region of the world

• They are recognised for their innovative solutions and leadership in addressing environmental challenges

The award aims to empower youth as key agents of environmental change.

 

 

The Indian Navy has recently deployed INS Gharial, along with three other naval vessels, under Operation Sagar Bandhu to provide Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) to the cyclone-affected regions of Sri Lanka. This deployment reflects India’s commitment to regional cooperation and its role as a first responder in the Indian Ocean Region.

About INS Gharial

INS Gharial (L23) is a Magar-class amphibious warfare vessel of the Indian Navy. It is the second indigenously built Landing Ship Tank (Large), highlighting India’s growing shipbuilding capabilities. The vessel is among the largest ships in the Indian Navy and is designed primarily for amphibious operations and logistics support.

Construction and Commissioning

INS Gharial was constructed by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE). The ship was commissioned on 14 February 1997 and currently forms part of the Eastern Fleet under the Eastern Naval Command.

Operational and Combat Capabilities

INS Gharial has significant operational versatility. It is capable of carrying two helicopters, with one accommodated in the hangar and another on the deck. The vessel can transport up to 10 Vijayanta tanks in its underbelly and can also carry four Landing Craft Assault (LCA) slung aloft.

In terms of combat capability, the ship is equipped with guns and rocket launchers. These weapons are used to soften hostile beaches before amphibious landings, enabling tanks and assault troops to advance safely during military operations.

Strategic Significance

INS Gharial plays a crucial role in amphibious warfare, disaster relief operations, and maritime security. Its deployment under Operation Sagar Bandhu demonstrates the Indian Navy’s ability to combine military preparedness with humanitarian assistance, thereby strengthening India’s strategic presence and diplomatic outreach in the region.

The 11th edition of the India International Science Festival (IISF) is being held in Panchkula, Haryana. The festival serves as a major national platform to promote scientific temper, innovation, and public engagement with science.

About India International Science Festival (IISF)

The India International Science Festival was launched in 2015 with the objective of bringing together scientists, researchers, students, policymakers, and the general public from India and abroad. The festival promotes collaboration, interaction, and the joy of doing science for the wellbeing of India and humanity, guided by the spirit of Swadeshi science.

Mission of IISF

The core mission of IISF is to bridge traditional knowledge systems with modern scientific research. It aims to strengthen the link between India’s indigenous knowledge heritage and contemporary scientific inquiry, thereby fostering inclusive and sustainable scientific development.

Key Facts about India International Science Festival 2025

• IISF 2025 is organized by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).

• It is coordinated by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune.

• The theme of IISF 2025 is “Vigyan Se Samruddhi: for Aatmanirbhar Bharat”, emphasizing the role of science in achieving self-reliance and prosperity.

• The festival will host more than 150 technical and thematic sessions covering various aspects of science, technology, and innovation.

Major Focus Areas of IISF 2025

IISF 2025 will focus on five broad thematic areas:

1. Science, Technology, and Ecology of North-West India and the Himalayan Region

2. Science for Society and Education

3. Atmanirbhar Bharat through Science and Technology

4. Biotechnology and Bio-economy

5. Integration of Traditional Knowledge with Modern Science

Significance of IISF

The India International Science Festival plays a crucial role in promoting scientific awareness, encouraging innovation, and popularizing science among the masses. By integrating traditional knowledge with modern science, IISF supports India’s vision of sustainable development and self-reliance.