Despite significant efforts by the Indian government to improve the education sector, substantial challenges remain, particularly in addressing learning poverty and persistent inequalities. Learning poverty, defined as the inability of a 10-year-old to read and comprehend simple text, remains alarmingly high. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and initiatives like the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan aim to revamp the education system, yet their implementation faces hurdles, especially in rural and underprivileged areas.

One major issue is the quality of education, which is often compromised by inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of trained teachers, and outdated curricula. These factors disproportionately affect marginalized communities, exacerbating existing inequalities. Furthermore, the digital divide has been glaringly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many students lacking access to online education, leading to further learning loss.

To tackle these challenges, a multi-pronged approach is needed. This includes strengthening teacher training programs, improving school infrastructure, and ensuring access to quality digital learning resources. Additionally, targeted interventions are required to support vulnerable groups, ensuring that educational opportunities are equitable and inclusive. Only with these focused efforts can India hope to overcome learning poverty and bridge the educational inequalities that persist.