U.P. CM Yogi Adityanath pushes for zero dropout, appeals to society for ensuring no child is left out of school

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday appealed to every section of society in Varanasi to ensure that no child is left out of school, pressing for the dropout rate to be brought down to zero, adding that the student dropout rate in UP had come down to just 3% from 19% before 2017. Mr. Adityanath said, “I request teachers, parents, public representatives and all sections of society to ensure that no child is deprived of education. This is the most sacred responsibility, every individual has the opportunity to succeed and those who shape themselves accordingly will achieve success.”School Chalo Abhiyanfor the academic session 2026-27 at Composite School in Shivpur Varunapar District, Varanasi.

“Every child should be taken to school. When a child becomes educated and cultured, he shows gratitude and respect throughout his life. When a child becomes literate, society progresses and the nation reaches new levels of prosperity. Conversely, illiteracy leads to poverty and underdevelopment. Therefore, every child must be educated to progress towards a developed India,” the UP CM added.

Mr. Adityanath also viewed and interacted with the exhibition set up by the students in the school premises. He also instructed principals to communicate with parents and encouraged teachers to visit homes in villages and districts before school hours to identify out-of-school children. “Parents should be informed that the government provides all facilities free of charge and should be encouraged to enroll their children,” he said.

Referring to the education scenario before 2017, Adityanath said that education was not on the government’s agenda. “Before 2017, education was not on the government’s agenda. The school dropout rate, especially after classes 3 and 6, was 19%. Children remained out of school due to lack of basic amenities like toilets and drinking water. These gaps have now been addressed. The dropout rate has come down to 3% and should be reduced to zero. Uttar Pradesh currently spends more than Rs 80,000 crore on school education. Kasturba Gandhi schools have been expanded up to class 12, the UP CM said, and are for children from workers and poor families.” He said that Atal Boarding Schools were established.

Mr. Adityanath added that now every child is given free uniforms, sweaters, bags, books, socks and shoes. “Each child is given Rs 1,200 for uniform and related materials. Teachers should ensure that children go to school in appropriate uniform. If they carry out this duty sincerely, their lives will be meaningful and successful. Education is not just about certificates or degrees, it is about building character and shaping the future of the society and the nation.”