Education without equity: Why India's 80.9% literacy rate fails to bridge the gender and regional divide

Despite India's notable literacy rate of 80.9%, the figures mask significant disparities that persist across gender and regional lines. While the national average seems promising, it fails to reflect the uneven educational landscape where women and marginalized communities face substantial hurdles. In rural areas, particularly in states like Bihar and Rajasthan, female literacy rates lag far behind their male counterparts, underscoring a gender divide that education alone has yet to bridge. These disparities are further compounded by regional inequalities. Southern states such as Kerala boast literacy rates above 90%, whereas northern regions struggle to achieve similar success. This uneven distribution of educational resources and opportunities highlights systemic issues that literacy statistics alone cannot capture. Economic constraints, cultural norms, and inadequate infrastructure continue to hinder progress, particularly in remote and underserved areas. Efforts to address these inequities are ongoing, with government initiatives aiming to provide more inclusive and accessible education. However, experts argue that policy reforms must be holistic, targeting not just enrollment numbers but also quality and retention in schools. Bridging the gender and regional divide requires a concerted effort that goes beyond statistics, focusing on creating an educational environment where every individual, regardless of gender or location, has the opportunity to thrive.

— Authored by Next24 Live