Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday in Varanasi appealed to every section of society to ensure no child is left out of school, pushing to bring down the dropout rate to zero, adding that in U.P. student dropout rate has reduced from 19% before 2017 to just 3%. “I request all of you be it teachers, parents, public representatives and all sections of society to ensure that no child is deprived of education. It is the most sacred responsibility, every individual gets an opportunity to become accomplished, and those who shape themselves accordingly achieve success,” said Mr. Adityanath, while launching the ‘School Chalo Abhiyan’ for the academic session 2026-27 at the Composite School, Shivpur Varunapar Zone in Varanasi.
“Every child must be taken to school. When a child becomes educated and cultured, they express gratitude and show respect throughout life. When a child becomes literate, society progresses and the nation achieves new heights of prosperity. Conversely, illiteracy leads to poverty and backwardness. Therefore, every child must be educated to move towards a developed India,” added the U.P. CM.
Mr. Adityanath also inspected an exhibition set up by students on the school premises and interacted with them. He also directed principals to engage with parents and encouraged teachers to visit homes in villages and localities before school hours to identify children who are not attending school. “Parents should be informed that the government is providing all facilities free of cost and should be encouraged to enroll their children,” he said.
Touching upon the educational scenario before 2017, Mr. Adityanath said education was not on government’s agenda. “Before 2017, education was not on the government’s agenda. The dropout rate was 19%, especially after classes 3 to 6. Children stayed away from school due to lack of basic facilities like toilets and drinking water. These gaps have now been addressed. The dropout rate has declined to 3% and must be reduced to zero. Uttar Pradesh now spends more than ₹80,000 crores on school education. Kasturba Gandhi schools have been expanded up to class 12, and Atal Residential Schools have been established for children of workers and destitute families,” said the U.P. CM.
Mr. Adityanath added every child now receives free uniforms, sweaters, bags, books, socks and shoes. “Each child is provided ₹1200 for uniforms and related items. Teachers must ensure that children attend school in proper uniform. If they fulfil this duty sincerely, their lives will be meaningful and successful. Education is not just about certificates or degrees, but about building character and shaping the future of society and the nation,” he said.
