BS EDIT: Why India must focus on education outcomes, not just access

By Business StandardPublished On Mar 26, 2025

Learning gap persists

High enrolment, but many students still lack basic skills

Education drives growth

It accounted for 50% of global growth since 1980

Higher education pays more

Returns rise from 2–3% (primary) to 13%+ (post-secondary)

Foundations remain weak

Many students can’t read fluently or solve basic maths

Higher education improving

Indian universities are rising in global rankings, but gaps remain in industry ties

Time to shift focus

India now needs policies that boost outcomes across all levels