'Decline in child population growth led to fall in enrolment'

NEW DELHI: There has been a decline in enrolment in government primary schools over three years till 2013-14 which could be attributed to a reduction in the growth rate of child population, the Rajya Sabha was informed today.

The enrolment in primary classes has declined from about 9.16 crore in 2011-12 to about 8.31 crore in 2013-14. Enrolment in upper primary levels increased from over 3.77 crore in 2011-12 to over 3.88 crore.

"There is marginal decline in enrolment in government primary schools whereas the enrolment at upper primary level is showing increasing trend over last three years."

"The decline in the enrolment at primary level can be attributed to the reduction in growth of child population," HRD Minister Smriti Irani said during Question Hour amid sloganeering by Congress members over Arunachal Pradesh issue.

In a written reply to queries relating to children covered under mid-day meal scheme, the Minister said 106 complaints of sub-standard quality of food served under the mid-day meal scheme were received and state governments have taken action.

"During the last two years and the current year, 106 complaints of sub-standard quality of food have been received. The state governments have taken action on these complaints including inquiries/investigations, suspensions, warning and transfer of officials as well as action for systemic improvement," the Minister added.

About 10.22 crore children were covered under the mid-day meal scheme in 2014-15.