Uttar Pradesh has closed or merged over 26,000 government primary schools since 2017. The state’s education department reported these figures recently. This action has sparked debate about the future of education in the state.
Despite the closures, Uttar Pradesh still has the largest number of government schools in India. This is due to the state’s large population and existing educational infrastructure.
School Closures Data
Assembly data shows a decline in government primary schools. Enrolment numbers have also reportedly dropped. This raises concerns about access to education for many students.
District-wise data highlights significant closure numbers. Lakhimpur Kheri reported the highest number of closures.
| District | Government Primary Schools Closed |
| Lakhimpur Kheri | 758 |
| Sitapur | 650 |
| Prayagraj | 638 |
| Gorakhpur | Around 500 |
These figures have reignited discussions. School mergers especially impact rural areas. Government schools are often the primary education source there.
Government Response and Reforms
The state government states school mergers are part of reforms. These reforms aim to improve infrastructure. They also target better learning outcomes. Efficient resource use is another goal. Initiatives like Operation Kayakalp are part of this plan.
The focus now is on improving educational quality. The state also works to ensure access. This is particularly important for students in rural areas.
