India's education sector faces significant challenges in terms of access and quality, with disparities evident across socio-economic strata. Attendance rates drop sharply at secondary and higher levels, exacerbating the gap between rich and poor. In urban areas, only 6% of youth from the bottom 20% attend education beyond higher secondary, contrasting starkly with the 31% from the wealthiest quintile. Rural areas face even greater disparities. Consequently, affluent children enjoy better opportunities for higher education and employment, while poorer children are relegated to the informal sector, perpetuating vulnerability. This analysis underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to address access, quality, and equity in education.

India, Education sector, Access, Quality, Disparities, Socio-economic strata.