Girls' Education in Rural India: Barriers, Challenges, and Policy Interventions

Abstract

This paper examines the multifaceted challenges that continue to hinder girls' education in rural India, despite significant policy interventions and improvements in overall educational indicators. Drawing on empirical evidence from various studies conducted between 2010 and 2024, this research analyzes the persistent socio-cultural, economic, and infrastructural barriers that disproportionately affect girls' access to quality education in rural areas. The study identifies key obstacles including gender-based discrimination, early marriage, safety concerns, poverty, and inadequate school infrastructure. It further evaluates the effectiveness of major policy initiatives implemented by the Indian government and non-governmental organizations over the past decade. Findings suggest that while enrollment rates have improved, significant gaps remain in retention, transition to secondary education, and learning outcomes. The paper concludes by proposing a comprehensive framework that integrates targeted policy interventions, community mobilization strategies, and economic incentives to address the specific challenges faced by rural girls. This research contributes to the ongoing discourse on educational equity and gender equality in developing contexts, with specific implications for educational policy reform in India.