The updated information provided by the States/UTs reveal that 17.24 lakh children in 6-14 years age group are out of school as on 31st March, 2014. The number of out of school children has been reducing steadily in the 6-14 years age group in India. This information was given by the Minister for Human Resources Development Smt. Smriti Irani in the Rajya Sabha.

The Gross Enrolment ratio for girls as per UDISE data 2013-14 is 102.65% for primary level, 99.09% for elementary level, 75.15% for secondary level and 49.81% for higher secondary level.

Under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) a number of interventions viz., opening of schools in neighbourhood, construction of additional class rooms, provision of drinking water and toilet facility and provision of teachers, textbooks, uniforms for all girls and children belonging to SC, ST and BPL families in government schools and community involvement are provided to ensure that all children of the age group 6-14 are enrolled, retained and complete the elementary education cycle. Funds are also sanctioned to States/UTs for providing special training of out of school children to enable them to attend bridge courses for eventually mainstreaming into schools. The Mid-Day Meal programme also complements the SSA, to help enrolment and retention of children in schools.

Source: PIB