PAB directs State to identify reasons behind decline in Primary and Upper Primary admissions; praises improved meal coverage
PANAJI
The Union Education Ministry has directed the Goa government to ascertain the reasons behind the decline in student enrolment in schools after recording a drop in overall admissions for the academic year 2025-26. The Ministry, however, appreciated the State for increased student coverage under the mid-day meal scheme.
The observation was made by the Project Approval Board (PAB) during the meeting held earlier this month to consider the annual work plan and budget for the PM-POSHAN scheme (mid-day meal) for the financial year 2026-27.
As per the data, total enrolment in Goa declined marginally by 374 students, from 1,61,643 in 2024-25 to 1,61,269 in 2025-26, registering a 0.2 per cent drop.
The fall was mainly recorded in the Primary and Upper Primary segments. Primary enrolment fell by 582 students, from 92,501 to 91,919, while Upper Primary enrolment declined by 628 students, from 66,571 to 65,943.
However, Bal Vatika recorded a significant rise, with enrolment increasing by 836 students from 2,571 to 3,407, marking a 32.5 per cent jump.
The PAB appreciated the State for improving student coverage under the mid-day meal scheme in Bal Vatika and Primary classes. Average student coverage increased from 1,56,947 to 1,58,358, reflecting an addition of 1,411 students and a 0.9 per cent rise.
Coverage in Bal Vatika increased by 820 students (32%), while Primary coverage rose by 1,111 students (1.2%). However, Upper Primary coverage also registered a decline of 520 students, dropping from 64,801 to 64,281.
“The PAB advised the State to ascertain the reasons for this drop in enrolment and average coverage in Upper Primary and take corrective measures,” PAB directed.
The ministry’s observation comes amid concerns over falling student strength in higher classes despite overall improvements in access and coverage indicators. For the current academic year, PAB has approved mid-day meal supply to 1,58,358 students as against 1,56,947 last year.
The Board has also advised the State to ensure that the Aadhaar authentication of students is done through Biometric mode for 100% students and also update the data in MIS portal on monthly basis. Currently, the enrolment is around 99 per cent.
