The latest PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan 2024 report has revealed significant gaps in Chhattisgarh’s educational performance compared to the national average. Conducted by NCERT under the Ministry of Education, the survey assessed competencies in Grades 3, 6, and 9 across language, mathematics, science, and social science, along with school facilities and teacher development. At the foundational stage (Grade 3), students in Chhattisgarh scored below the national average in both language and mathematics, with a 5% gap in language and 3% in mathematics. For example, only 57% of students could perform simple time measurements compared to the national average of 61%. In the preparatory stage (Grade 6), the state average for basic unit conversions was 35%, trailing the national average of 38%. The middle stage (Grade 9) showed a similar trend, with Chhattisgarh performing 1–2% below the national average in language, mathematics, and social science.

 

Science was the only subject where the state matched the national performance. The report also highlighted concerns in school facilities and environment. About 32% of students reported being teased by peers, while 13% admitted to feeling unsafe at school. Alarmingly, 46% of schools lack an anti-bullying policy. In terms of infrastructure, 82% of students confirmed the availability of separate functional toilets, and 78% reported classrooms equipped with working fans and lights.

 

Technology access for learning remains limited, with 61% of students having smartphones but only 30% owning laptops or tablets. Still 48% school across the state lack computer or tablet facility for students. Teacher development is another area of concern, as only 28% of teachers participated in professional development programmes in the past year, and just 33% received ICT-related training. Education experts and academicians have emphasized the urgent need for systemic reforms in Chhattisgarh’s education sector. They stressed the importance of teacher training and digital integration and opined that the state must focus on equipping teachers with modern tools and teaching techniques to make learning more interactive and effective. While Child psychologist Dr RK Sahu expressed concerns about school safety and mental well-being, highlighting that a significant number of students feel unsafe at school. “Schools should adopt structured anti-bullying policies and promote mental health awareness among students to ensure a safe and inclusive learning environment,” he added.