New Delhi: For the first time, the total number of school teachers across India crossed the one crore mark during 2024-25, according to the Ministry of Education's UDISE data.

While overall school enrolment fell to a seven-year low of 24.68 crore, a decline of 11 lakh compared to the previous year, officials attributed the drop mainly to falling birth rates in most states.

The UDISE Plus platform, maintained by the education ministry, reported a 6.7% increase in teacher numbers compared to 2022-23. Pupil-Teacher Ratios (PTR) at foundational, preparatory, middle, and secondary levels improved to 10, 13, 17, and 21 respectively, well below the NEP's recommended 1:30 ratio.

“This improved PTR allows more individual attention and stronger teacher-student interaction, enhancing learning experiences and academic outcomes,” the report noted.

Student enrolment has been declining consistently: 24.8 crore in 2023-24, down from 25.18 crore in 2022-23. Officials said the decline is linked to outdated census data, with updated figures expected after the 2026 Census.

Dropout rates fell significantly in 2024-25 across preparatory (2.3%), middle (3.5%), and secondary (8.2%) levels, reflecting improved student retention and effective initiatives to keep children engaged. Retention rates rose across all levels, notably at the preparatory level (85.4% to 92.4%) and middle level (78% to 82.8%).

The increase in secondary schools also contributed to higher retention. UDISE Plus reported declines in zero-enrolment and single-teacher schools, down 38% and 6% respectively, enabling better allocation of teachers and improved PTR management.

Overall, the report indicates steady progress in the education system through targeted interventions and improved school infrastructure.