Madhya Pradesh Lags Behind in Digital Education
Efforts are being made across India under the National Education Policy 2020 to promote digital education, but Madhya Pradesh continues to lag behind several states in this area.
According to the recently released NITI Aayog “School Education System India” Report, only 45.7% of government schools in Madhya Pradesh have internet connectivity in 2024-25.
Impact on Education
During the COVID-19 pandemic, major efforts were made to strengthen online education. However, the expected improvement in digital infrastructure has not been achieved. Experts believe that the lack of internet access directly affects online learning, smart classrooms, and technical education.
Students in rural and remote areas remain deprived of digital resources, negatively impacting the quality of education.
Comparison with Other States
Madhya Pradesh is far behind states like Delhi and Gujarat in digital education facilities.
| State | Schools with Internet Facility |
|---|---|
| Delhi | 99%+ |
| Gujarat | 96.5% |
| Kerala | 91.7% |
| Punjab | 88.9% |
| Madhya Pradesh | 45.7% |
Computer and Smart Class Facilities
Around 40% of government schools in Madhya Pradesh still do not have computer facilities. Currently, only 59.2% of schools have computers available.
Smart classroom availability has improved from 5.2% in 2014-15 to 19.6% in 2024-25, but progress remains slow.
Major Challenges in Tribal and Rural Areas
Tribal and remote districts face severe issues related to electricity and network connectivity, making digital education difficult. Students are unable to fully benefit from smart classes and digital skill development programs.
Madhya Pradesh School Infrastructure Data
- Total government schools: 1.22 lakh
- Schools without electricity connection: 10,800
- Schools without regular power supply: 14,916
- Schools without computers: 59,797
- Schools without internet facility: 66,255
Growth in Facilities Over 10 Years
| Facility | 2014-15 | 2024-25 |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity Supply | 26.3% | 87.8% |
| Computer Facility | 14.6% | 59.2% |
| Internet Facility | 3.8% | 45.7% |
| Smart Classrooms | 5.2% | 19.6% |
Need for Improvement
To strengthen digital education in Madhya Pradesh, rapid expansion of internet connectivity, computer labs, and technical resources is necessary. Teachers and students also require digital training to modernize the education system effectively.