Transforming Education through Digital Infrastructure: An Analysis of UDISEPlus 2021-22 Data on Electricity, Computers, &  Internet Connectivity in Schools

Background

The usefulness, availability, and impact of electricity, computers, and internet connectivity are significant factors in the modern world, including the education sector. These resources have revolutionized how we learn, communicate, and access information. In the context of schools in India, several programs have been initiated to harness the potential of these technologies and bridge the digital divide. These resources have become an integral part of modern education, and their availability can significantly impact students’ quality of education.

According to a UN Report, about 188 million children attend schools from across the globe that are not connected to any electricity supply. This lack of electricity can significantly impact students’ learning experiences, as it can limit their access to resources and technology. This is also true for many schools which have got no electricity connection in schools.

Integrated Science Labs in Secondary Schools in India 2023

Sever efforts have been made worldwide to provide electricity connections in schools. In India also, many programs have been introduced to address the issue of electricity in schools. For example, the Digital India initiative of the government of India envisages providing high-speed internet connectivity to every citizen, including those in rural areas. Additionally, the National Digital Literacy Mission aims to provide digital literacy training to 52.5 million people, including students, across the country.

Overall, the availability of electricity, computers, and internet connectivity is crucial for students to access educational resources and succeed in a rapidly changing world. Programs launched in India are important steps toward ensuring that all schools and students have access to these resources.

More about the government’s initiatives are presented below:

1. Electricity: Reliable electricity is crucial for schools to function effectively. It powers computers, projectors, and other electronic devices, enabling teachers to use multimedia tools for interactive learning. In rural areas of India, efforts have been made to improve electricity access through the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana: An Initiative of the Government of India emphasizing providing uninterrupted power supply to rural households, including schools.
2. Computers: Computers have become essential tools in education, enabling students to access vast amounts of information, enhance their digital literacy, and develop crucial skills for the future job market. The Government of India has implemented various programs to promote computer education in schools, such as the National Digital Literacy Mission and the Digital India Initiative. These initiatives aim to equip schools with computer labs, train teachers, and integrate digital learning resources into the curriculum.
3. Internet Connectivity: Internet connectivity is one of the =game-changers that opens up a world of possibilities for students & teachers. It enables access to online educational resources, e-learning platforms, virtual classrooms, and global knowledge sharing. The Government of India’s BharatNet project aims to connect all rural areas with high-speed broadband, facilitating internet access in schools located in remote areas. Various private and non-profit organizations have also launched initiatives to provide internet connectivity to schools, particularly in underserved regions.
4. Programs in Schools: Several educational programs in India focus on leveraging electricity, computers, and internet connectivity in schools. For example, the Digital India for Rural Education program emphasizes digital literacy, computer-aided learning, and internet access in rural schools. The Atal Innovation Mission promotes innovation and entrepreneurship among students, encouraging the use of technology for problem-solving. The e-Pathshala initiative provides digital textbooks, multimedia content, and interactive learning modules to enhance the quality of education.

While impressive progress has been made, challenges remain in ensuring equitable access to electricity, computers, and internet connectivity across all schools in India. Efforts must continue bridging the digital divide and providing equal opportunities for students in rural and urban areas.

Given the importance of the electricity connection, digital devices, and internet connectivity in schools, an effort has been made to analyze the available UDISEPlus 2021-22 data (as of 30^th September 2021), both at the all-India and State level to take a view of the same.

Percentage of schools having  functional electricity by Management, 2021-22

India/  State/ UT	All Management	Government					Government Aided	Private Unaided Recognized	Others
		Total	KVS	NVS	Other Central Government	State Government
India	86.6	85.4	100	100	99.6	85.3	86.9	91.7	76
Andaman and Nicobar Islands	92.8	91.2	100	100	0.0	91.1	100	100	0.0
Andhra Pradesh	98.0	97.4	100	100	100	97.4	95.5	99.7	99.1
Arunachal Pradesh	53.8	45.4	100	100	100	44.7	97.1	94.6	85.1
Assam	75.1	87.8	100	100	100	87.7	21.1	76.5	8.4
Bihar	87.5	85.8	100	100	100	85.8	87.5	97.1	93.7
Chandigarh	100	100	100	100	100	100	100	100	100
Chhattisgarh	91.4	90.4	100	100	100	90.4	89.4	98.1	94.1
Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu	100	100	100	100	0.0	100	100	100	100
Delhi	100	100	100	100	0.0	100	100	100	0.0
Goa	100	100	100	100	0.0	100	100	100	0.0
Gujarat	100	99.9	100	100	100	99.9	100	100	100
Haryana	97.8	96.8	100	100	100	96.8	100	99.4	99.1
Himachal Pradesh	97.8	97.4	100	100	100	97.4	0.0	99.8	100.0
Jammu and Kashmir	72.9	69.7	100	100	0.0	69.6	100.0	86.4	80.0
Jharkhand	92.1	93.0	100	100	100	93.0	64.8	96.0	91.3
Karnataka	98.6	98.4	100	100	100	98.4	99.7	98.5	100.0
Kerala	99.5	98.6	100	100	100	98.6	100	99.8	99.8
Ladakh	92.2	91.9	100	100	100	91.8	100	92.9	0.0
Lakshadweep	100	100	100	100	0.0	100	0.0	0.0	0.0
Madhya Pradesh	74.8	69.5	100	100	100	69.4	73.8	90.6	85.2
Maharashtra	85.6	76.9	100	100	100	76.8	98.3	98.7	99.4
Manipur	54.5	43.5	100	100	100	43.1	30.0	95.9	85.9
Meghalaya	24.7	16.2	100	100	0.0	16.0	31.6	37.0	44.6
Mizoram	79.6	74.8	100	100	100	74.6	95.7	87.3	89.3
Nagaland	67.1	57.8	100	100	100	57.4	0.0	91.1	100.0
Odisha	76.7	75.1	100	100	100	75.0	70.1	93.4	86.5
Puducherry	100	100	100	100	0.0	100	100	100	0.0
Punjab	100	100	100	100	100	100	100	100	100
Rajasthan	86.7	82.7	100	100	100	82.7	0.0	95.4	76.4
Sikkim	98.4	97.7	100	100	100	97.7	100	100	0.0
Tamil Nadu	100	100	100	0	100	100	100	100	100
Telangana	90.3	87.0	100	100	100	86.9	88.7	98.7	98.8
Tripura	55.0	53.0	100	100	0.0	52.8	86.0	89.3	34.1
Uttar Pradesh	81.3	80.8	100	100	100	80.7	83.3	82.6	77.0
Uttarakhand	88.6	86.0	100	100	100	85.9	92.8	95.6	97.4
West Bengal	96.2	96.9	100	100	97.7	96.9	96.6	91.2	87.2

Source: UDISE+ 2021-22

Electricity Connection in Schools: UDISEPlus 2021-22

The data shows that 86.6% of schools in India have available electricity. While this is a significant improvement, it also indicates that a considerable percentage of schools still lack access to electricity. Government-aided and private unaided schools have a higher percentage of functional electricity compared to government-managed schools. This suggests the need for focused efforts to improve electricity access in government-managed schools.

The availability of functional electricity further reveals that the same varies across states and union territories. States like Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana have achieved 100% usable electricity in all management types. On the other hand, states like Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Tripura have lower percentages, indicating the need for targeted interventions in these regions.

• Among government-managed schools, Meghalaya has the lowest percentage of functional electricity at 16.2%. This indicates a significant challenge in providing electricity access to schools in the state.
• Government-aided schools: Among government-aided schools, Nagaland has the lowest percentage of functional electricity at 57.8%. This indicates the need for focused efforts to improve electricity access in government-aided schools in Nagaland.
• Other Central Government-managed schools: Among other central government-managed schools, there is a 100% availability of functional electricity in all states/UTs. This indicates that the challenges in providing electricity access are relatively lower in this management category.

Regional disparity, irrespective of school management, has been seen nationwide. On the one hand, the highest percentage of schools having available electricity was observed in Karnataka, with a remarkable 98.6 percent availability. This indicates that most schools in Karnataka have access to electricity, which is crucial for various educational activities, including using computers, projectors, and other electronic devices. However, on the other hand a in a few states, the same is yet to be provided to the majority of schools.

These states require targeted efforts and resources to improve electricity infrastructure and ensure a conducive learning environment for students, as many schools have yet to be provided with electricity.

Functional Computers: UDISEPlus 2021-22

The number of schools by management and availability of functional computer facilities in India for the year 2021-22, we can draw the following observations:

1. The total number of schools in India covered under UDISEPlus 2021-22 is 1,489,115, out of which 1,022,386 schools have a functional computer facility, which accounts for approximately 68.6% of all schools in India.
   • Among government schools, 82.8% have a functional computer facility, indicating a significant effort to provide computer resources in these schools.
   • Only 35.8% of government-aided schools have a functional computer facility, suggesting a need for more support in this sector.
   • Most private unaided schools (67.5%) have a functional computer facility, showcasing the higher availability of technology in these institutions.

Schools in the “Others” category have varying percentages of functional computer facilities. This category includes Unrecognized schools,  Madrasa (recognized by madrasa/wakf board), and unrecognized Madrasa.

The availability of functional computers has also been analyzed state-wise, which reveals that:

• There is substantial variation in the availability of functional computer facilities across different states and union territories in India.
• Chandigarh, Goa, Gujarat, Delhi, and Kerala have a high percentage of schools with functional computer facilities, ranging from 91.1% to 100%.
• States like Assam, Jharkhand, Odisha, Rajasthan, and West Bengal have relatively lower percentages, ranging from 18.1% to 54.5%.

• Across various states, government schools generally have a lower percentage of functional computer facilities compared to private unaided schools.
• The data does not explicitly mention the rural-urban distribution. However, it can be inferred that rural areas might face challenges regarding computer facility availability, as government schools and schools in economically disadvantaged areas tend to have lower percentages of functional computer facilities.

The data highlights the progress made in providing functional computer facilities in schools across India. However, areas still require attention and improvement, particularly in government-aided schools and in certain states with lower percentages. Efforts should be made to bridge this gap and ensure equitable access to technology in all types of schools. Continued efforts to enhance access to technology and bridge the digital divide are essential for the overall development of education in the country.

Number of Schools by Management and Availability of Functional Computer Facility, 2021-22

India/ State/ UT	Total Schools					Schools with functional computer facility					Percentage of Schools with functional computer facility
	All manageme nt	Governme nt.	Gover nment. aided	Pvt. unaided	Others	All manage ment	Govern ment.	Govern ment. aided	Pvt. unaided	Others	All manage ment	Govern ment.	Govern ment. aided	Pvt. unaided	Others
India	1489115	1022386	82480	335844	48405	682566	366368	55696	241633	18869	45.8	35.8	67.5	71.9	39
Andaman and Nicobar Islands	416	342	2	72	0	275	203	2	70	0	66.1	59.4	100	97.2	0
Andhra Pradesh	61948	45137	1542	15058	211	29654	14739	492	14300	123	47.9	32.7	31.9	95	58.3
Arunachal Pradesh	3603	2985	68	503	47	1161	621	64	442	34	32.2	20.8	94.1	87.9	72.3
Assam	60859	45490	3841	5852	5676	9900	6306	299	3162	133	16.3	13.9	7.8	54	2.3
Bihar	93165	75558	742	8097	8768	17090	6472	150	5717	4751	18.3	8.6	20.2	70.6	54.2
Chandigarh	233	123	7	76	27	232	123	7	76	26	99.6	100	100	100	96.3
Chhattisgarh	56512	48743	417	7063	289	46777	41154	203	5310	110	82.8	84.4	48.7	75.2	38.1
Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu	460	388	8	63	1	409	340	8	60	1	88.9	87.6	100	95.2	100
Delhi	5619	2762	247	2610	0	5619	2762	247	2610	0	100	100	100	100	0
Goa	1510	814	557	139	0	822	165	524	133	0	54.4	20.3	94.1	95.7	0
Gujarat	53851	34699	5590	13559	3	52664	34074	5543	13044	3	97.8	98.2	99.2	96.2	100
Haryana	23726	14562	16	8261	887	21744	13151	14	7841	738	91.6	90.3	87.5	94.9	83.2
Himachal Pradesh	18028	15380	0	2646	2	7116	4653	0	2463	0	39.5	30.3	0	93.1	0
Jammu and Kashmir	28805	23173	1	5526	105	9395	5067	1	4259	68	32.6	21.9	100	77.1	64.8
Jharkhand	44855	35840	1175	1559	6281	36797	30586	426	1397	4388	82	85.3	36.3	89.6	69.9
Karnataka	76450	49679	7110	19650	11	41366	18773	5430	17154	9	54.1	37.8	76.4	87.3	81.8
Kerala	16240	5010	7183	3164	883	15951	4815	7174	3114	848	98.2	96.1	99.9	98.4	96
Ladakh	978	838	28	112	0	441	337	9	95	0	45.1	40.2	32.1	84.8	0
Lakshadweep	38	38	0	0	0	38	38	0	0	0	100	100	0	0	0
Madhya Pradesh	125582	92695	740	30345	1802	31639	10963	289	19943	444	25.2	11.8	39.1	65.7	24.6
Maharashtra	109605	65639	24037	19268	661	86163	44658	22243	18660	602	78.6	68	92.5	96.8	91.1
Manipur	4617	2889	583	1010	135	1659	583	47	936	93	35.9	20.2	8.1	92.7	68.9
Meghalaya	14600	7783	4172	2120	525	2599	849	948	649	153	17.8	10.9	22.7	30.6	29.1
Mizoram	3911	2563	230	1034	84	2033	1061	183	731	58	52	41.4	79.6	70.7	69
Nagaland	2718	1960	0	757	1	1467	813	0	653	1	54	41.5	0	86.3	100
Odisha	62291	49072	5807	6104	1308	15870	8705	1820	4583	762	25.5	17.7	31.3	75.1	58.3
Puducherry	736	422	33	281	0	726	412	33	281	0	98.6	97.6	100	100	0
Punjab	27701	19259	450	7978	14	27574	19248	414	7903	9	99.5	99.9	92	99.1	64.3
Rajasthan	106373	68948	0	34826	2599	52981	24352	0	27827	802	49.8	35.3	0	79.9	30.9
Sikkim	1259	864	19	376	0	1116	747	14	355	0	88.6	86.5	73.7	94.4	0
Tamil Nadu	58801	37636	8323	12396	446	45255	29846	3883	11180	346	77	79.3	46.7	90.2	77.6
Telangana	43083	30023	700	12193	167	18188	8051	260	9843	34	42.2	26.8	37.1	80.7	20.4
Tripura	4929	4262	43	363	261	1538	1169	31	290	48	31.2	27.4	72.1	79.9	18.4
Uttar Pradesh	258054	137024	8113	97808	15109	66564	9880	4423	48664	3597	25.8	7.2	54.5	49.8	23.8
Uttarakhand	22815	16484	608	5225	498	12557	7470	461	4388	238	55	45.3	75.8	84	47.8
West Bengal	94744	83302	88	9750	1604	17186	13182	54	3500	450	18.1	15.8	61.4	35.9	28.1

Source: UDISEPlus 2021-22

Analysis of a few significant states concerning the availability of functional computers is highlighted below:

Bihar

Bihar has a total of 93,165 schools. Schools with Functional Computer Facility: Among these schools, only 18.3% have a functional computer facility. Bihar lags in providing computer facilities in schools, with a relatively low percentage compared to the national average. Efforts must be made in Bihar to improve access to technology in schools across the state. However, the states have adopted different routes and higher private agencies’ man with the machine’ to make available resources at the block level.

Kerala

Kerala has a total of 16,240 schools. Schools with Functional Computer Facility: A significant percentage of schools in Kerala (98.2%) have a functional computer facility. Kerala stands out with a high percentage of schools equipped with computer facilities. This indicates the state’s commitment to integrating technology into education.

Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu has a total of 58,801 schools. Schools with Functional Computer Facility: Approximately 77% of schools in Tamil Nadu have a functional computer facility. Tamil Nadu demonstrates a relatively high percentage of schools with computer facilities, but there is room for improvement to increase the availability of technology in more schools.

Gujarat

Gujarat has a total of 53,851 schools. Schools with Functional Computer Facility: Most schools in Gujarat (97.8%) have a functional computer facility. Gujarat has made significant progress in providing school computer facilities, with a high percentage compared to the national average.

Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh has a significant number of schools, with 258,054 in total. Schools with Functional Computer Facility: However, only 25.8% of schools in Uttar Pradesh have a functional computer facility. Uttar Pradesh faces challenges in terms of providing computer facilities in schools. Concerted efforts should be made to improve access to technology, especially in government schools.

West Bengal

West Bengal has a total of 94,744 schools. Schools with Functional Computer Facility: A relatively low percentage of schools in West Bengal (18.1%) have a functional computer facility. West Bengal struggles with providing computer facilities in schools, with a significantly lower percentage than the national average. Steps should be taken to bridge this gap and enhance access to technology in schools.

Karnataka

Karnataka has a total of 76,450 schools.

Schools with Functional Computer Facility: Approximately 54.1% of schools in Karnataka have a functional computer facility. Karnataka’s percentage of schools with computer facilities is slightly below the national average.

Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh has a total of 18,028 schools. Schools with Functional Computer Facility: Only 39.5% of schools in Himachal Pradesh have a functional computer facility. Himachal Pradesh needs to focus on improving school access to technology to enhance digital literacy and keep pace with technological advancements.

Andhra Pradesh and Telangana

Andhra Pradesh has 61,948 schools, while Telangana has 43,083 schools.

Schools with Functional Computer Facility: The percentage of schools with functional computer facilities in Andhra Pradesh is 47.9%, and in Telangana, it is 42.2%. Both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have relatively lower percentages of schools with computer facilities. Efforts should be made to increase the availability of technology in schools in these states.

These analyses provide an overview of the availability of functional computer facilities in schools in specific states. While some states have made significant progress, others lag. It highlights variations and disparities, emphasizing the need for targeted efforts to bridge the digital divide and ensure equitable access to technology in education across India.

The Imperative of Internet Connectivity in Schools

Internet connectivity plays a crucial role in schools, complementing the availability of electricity and functional computers. Internet connectivity in schools has become increasingly essential in today’s digital age. In schools, it serves as a gateway to a vast repository of knowledge, resources, and educational tools that enhance the learning experience for students. Here are some key reasons why internet connectivity is crucial in schools:

1. Access to Information: The Internet provides students access to a wealth of information beyond the confines of textbooks. It opens up a world of knowledge, enabling students to conduct research, explore diverse perspectives, and keep updated with the latest developments in the education world.
2. Enriched Learning Resources: With internet connectivity, schools can leverage online learning platforms, educational websites, and digital libraries that offer interactive lessons, videos, simulations, and other multimedia resources. These resources make learning more engaging, interactive, and tailored to individual student needs.
3. Collaboration and Communication: Internet connectivity facilitates collaboration and communication among students, teachers, and experts worldwide. It enables students to work on group projects, participate in online discussions, seek guidance from subject matter experts, and connect with students from different cultural backgrounds, fostering global awareness and cultural exchange.
4. Skill Development: The Internet offers a plethora of opportunities for skill development. Students can enhance their digital literacy, critical thinking, problem-solving, and information evaluation skills by navigating online resources, analyzing data, and engaging in online activities and projects. These skills are crucial for their academic and professional success in the 21st century.
5. Educational Innovation: Internet connectivity opens up avenues for educational innovation. It allows for integrating technology tools like educational apps, online assessments, virtual reality, and augmented reality experiences, enabling immersive and interactive learning. It empowers teachers to adopt innovative teaching methodologies that cater to diverse learning styles and promote student engagement.
6. Global Learning and Exposure: Internet connectivity has the potential to break down geographical barriers and allows students to connect with students and educators worldwide. Students can broaden their perspectives, gain cross-cultural understanding, and develop a global mindset through virtual exchanges, video conferences, and online collaborations.
7. Career Readiness: In today’s digital economy, proficiency in utilizing internet resources and technology is vital for future career prospects. Internet connectivity equips students with the digital skills and familiarity with online tools necessary for their academic and professional journeys.

Without a doubt, internet connectivity in schools is indispensable for modern education. It enables access to vast information, enriches learning resources, promotes collaboration and communication, fosters skill development, facilitates educational innovation, broadens global exposure, and prepares students for the digital world and future careers. Schools must prioritize and invest in robust internet connectivity to unlock the full potential of technology in education.

Number of Schools by Management & Availability of Internet Facility, 2021-22

India/ State/ UT	Total Schools					Schools with internet facility available					Percentage of Schools with internet facility available
	All manage ment	Govern ment.	Govern ment. aided	Pvt. unaided	Others	All manage ment	Govern ment.	Govern ment. aided	Pvt. unaided	Others	All manage ment	Govern ment.	Govern ment. aided	Pvt. unaided	Others
India	1489115	1022386	82480	335844	48405	504989	247000	43795	200274	13920	33.9	24.2	53.1	59.6	28.8
Andaman and Nicobar Islands	416	342	2	72	0	187	133	2	52	0	45	38.9	100	72.2	0
Andhra Pradesh	61948	45137	1542	15058	211	34744	20313	756	13560	115	56.1	45	49	90.1	54.5
Arunachal Pradesh	3603	2985	68	503	47	794	458	38	284	14	22	15.3	55.9	56.5	29.8
Assam	60859	45490	3841	5852	5676	7126	4680	265	1945	236	11.7	10.3	6.9	33.2	4.2
Bihar	93165	75558	742	8097	8768	10381	4421	65	3493	2402	11.1	5.9	8.8	43.1	27.4
Chandigarh	233	123	7	76	27	230	123	7	76	24	98.7	100	100	100	88.9
Chhattisgarh	56512	48743	417	7063	289	20735	16469	153	4066	47	36.7	33.8	36.7	57.6	16.3
Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu	460	388	8	63	1	264	194	8	61	1	57.4	50	100	96.8	100
Delhi	5619	2762	247	2610	0	5619	2762	247	2610	0	100	100	100	100	0
Goa	1510	814	557	139	0	879	299	459	121	0	58.2	36.7	82.4	87.1	0
Gujarat	53851	34699	5590	13559	3	49522	32681	4685	12153	3	92	94.2	83.8	89.6	100
Haryana	23726	14562	16	8261	887	12158	4345	14	7160	639	51.2	29.8	87.5	86.7	72
Himachal Pradesh	18028	15380	0	2646	2	6215	4175	0	2040	0	34.5	27.2	0	77.1	0
Jammu and Kashmir	28805	23173	1	5526	105	8566	5169	1	3345	51	29.7	22.3	100	60.5	48.6
Jharkhand	44855	35840	1175	1559	6281	16726	12052	390	1153	3131	37.3	33.6	33.2	74	49.9
Karnataka	76450	49679	7110	19650	11	22590	5308	3133	14145	4	29.6	10.7	44.1	72	36.4
Kerala	16240	5010	7183	3164	883	15459	4738	6938	3010	773	95.2	94.6	96.6	95.1	87.5
Ladakh	978	838	28	112	0	418	342	13	63	0	42.7	40.8	46.4	56.3	0
Lakshadweep	38	38	0	0	0	37	37	0	0	0	97.4	97.4	0	0	0
Madhya Pradesh	125582	92695	740	30345	1802	34562	16469	254	17339	500	27.5	17.8	34.3	57.1	27.8
Maharashtra	109605	65639	24037	19268	661	52553	18540	16985	16542	486	48	28.3	70.7	85.9	73.5
Manipur	4617	2889	583	1010	135	1065	340	64	617	44	23.1	11.8	11	61.1	32.6
Meghalaya	14600	7783	4172	2120	525	2460	1111	782	488	79	16.9	14.3	18.7	23	15.1
Mizoram	3911	2563	230	1034	84	307	153	31	114	9	7.9	6	13.5	11	10.7
Nagaland	2718	1960	0	757	1	1383	850	0	532	1	50.9	43.4	0	70.3	100
Odisha	62291	49072	5807	6104	1308	9284	3970	1012	3717	585	14.9	8.1	17.4	60.9	44.7
Puducherry	736	422	33	281	0	724	422	31	271	0	98.4	100	93.9	96.4	0
Punjab	27701	19259	450	7978	14	16429	9013	386	7026	4	59.3	46.8	85.8	88.1	28.6
Rajasthan	106373	68948	0	34826	2599	63674	36889	0	26170	615	59.9	53.5	0	75.2	23.7
Sikkim	1259	864	19	376	0	434	231	8	195	0	34.5	26.7	42.1	51.9	0
Tamil Nadu	58801	37636	8323	12396	446	22086	9292	3207	9323	264	37.6	24.7	38.5	75.2	59.2
Telangana	43083	30023	700	12193	167	9887	2772	188	6917	10	23	9.2	26.9	56.7	6
Tripura	4929	4262	43	363	261	896	682	14	175	25	18.2	16	32.6	48.2	9.6
Uttar Pradesh	258054	137024	8113	97808	15109	54554	12074	3366	35701	3413	21.1	8.8	41.5	36.5	22.6
Uttarakhand	22815	16484	608	5225	498	6245	2575	246	3245	179	27.4	15.6	40.5	62.1	35.9
West Bengal	94744	83302	88	9750	1604	15796	12918	47	2565	266	16.7	15.5	53.4	26.3	16.6

 Internet Connectivity in Schools: UDISEPlus 2021-22 Data

Across India, out of 1,489,115 schools, only 33.9% have internet connectivity. Many schools have yet to reap the benefits of digital resources and online learning tools. While government-managed schools exhibit a lower percentage of internet connectivity at 24.2%, the numbers improve for government-aided (53.1%) and private unaided schools (59.6%). These statistics indicate the need for concerted efforts in bridging the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to internet connectivity in all schools on a pan-India basis.

State-wise Analysis

Here is the state-specific analsysis in the case of a few states:

1. Bihar: Out of 93,165 schools, only 11.1% have internet connectivity. While government-managed schools show a meager 5.9% connectivity, private unaided schools lead with 43.1%. These figures highlight the urgent need to prioritize internet connectivity in Bihar’s schools, especially those managed by the government.
2. Kerala: With 16,240 schools, Kerala stands out, with an impressive 95.2% of schools having internet connectivity. Notably, government-aided and private unaided schools in the state showcase high connectivity rates of 96.6% and 95.1%, respectively. Kerala’s emphasis on digital infrastructure has paved the way for enriched learning experiences and access to various online resources.
3. Tamil Nadu: In Tamil Nadu, 37.6% of the 58,801 schools have internet connectivity. While government-managed schools have a relatively lower connectivity rate of 24.7%, private unaided schools lead at 75.2%. These figures suggest a need for more significant efforts to ensure internet access for schools managed by the government in Tamil Nadu.
4. Gujarat: Of 53,851 schools, Gujarat demonstrates a 92% connectivity rate. Notably, government-managed schools in the state show a high connectivity rate of 94.2%, indicating the successful implementation of digital initiatives. Efforts must continue to bridge the connectivity gap in private unaided schools and further strengthen the digital infrastructure across all schools.
5. Uttar Pradesh: With a staggering 258,054 schools, Uttar Pradesh’s overall internet connectivity rate stands at 21.1%. The connectivity rate for government-managed schools is notably low at 8.8%, while private unaided schools exhibit a relatively higher rate of 36.5%. Addressing the digital divide and improving internet connectivity in government-managed schools should be a priority in Uttar Pradesh.

Internet connectivity in schools is pivotal for transforming education in the digital era. The data analysis highlights the need for concerted efforts to ensure internet access in schools, especially those managed by the government. Bridging the digital divide and prioritizing internet connectivity may significantly empower students with the tools and resources they need to excel in the 21st century. It is also crucial for policymakers, educational institutions, and stakeholders to chalk out their plans because of the availability of digital opportunities in schools.

Challenges: Bridging the Digital Divide

Despite significant improvement in the availability of digital infrastructure  in schools, still, there are  a few challenges that must be looked into on a priority basis>

1. Infrastructure gaps: Many schools in remote and rural areas still lack proper electrical connections and face challenges accessing reliable power. Ensuring electricity infrastructure reaches every school remains a significant challenge.
2. Budget constraints: Adequate funding is crucial for providing computers, internet connectivity, and school infrastructure improvements. Limited financial resources can hinder the implementation and scaling of these initiatives.
3. Internet connectivity in rural areas: While efforts have been made to improve internet connectivity in schools, ensuring high-speed and reliable internet access in rural and remote areas remains a challenge. The availability and affordability of internet services need to be addressed.
4. Digital divide: The digital divide between urban and rural areas and among different socioeconomic groups poses a challenge. Bridging this gap and ensuring equal access to computers and the Internet for all students is essential for equitable education.
5. Teacher training and capacity building: Effective integration computers and technology in classrooms requires skilled teachers who can utilize these tools for enhanced teaching and learning. Ensuring adequate training and professional development opportunities for teachers is crucial.
6. Maintenance and sustainability: Maintaining computers, infrastructure, and internet connectivity in schools requires regular upkeep and support. Ensuring sustainability and long-term maintenance of these resources pose ongoing challenges.

Addressing these challenges requires sustained efforts, the collaboration between government, educational institutions, and stakeholders, and a comprehensive approach focusing on infrastructure development, teacher training, and bridging the digital divide.

Programs launched in India to improve computers, electricity, and the Internet in schools.

1. Digital India Initiative: Launched in 2015, this program has the potential to transform India into a digitally empowered society. It includes initiatives like the National Digital Literacy Mission, which focuses on digital literacy and awareness among citizens, including students.
2. Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA): This program, launched in 2009, focuses on improving secondary education in India. It includes provisions for computer education, infrastructure development, and ICT-enabled teaching-learning processes in schools.
3. Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA): Launched in 2017, this program aims to digitally literate rural households. It includes training on using computers, accessing the Internet, and using digital resources effectively.
4. Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan: This centrally sponsored scheme, launched in 2018, integrates various educational initiatives, including providing computers, computer-aided learning, and digital resources in schools.

Education for All in India