86 lakh students left government schools. 88 lakh moved into private unaided…

86 lakh students left government schools.
88 lakh moved into private unaided schools.

That isn't just an education statistic.

It's a question:

Why are Indian parents moving away from government schools?

UDISE+ 2025–26 data shows government-school enrolment fell by around 86 lakh students over two years, while recognised private unaided schools gained more than 88 lakh.

So don't just ask:

“Why are parents choosing private schools?”

Ask:

“What is happening inside the public education system that is making them leave?”

Government schools aren't charity.

They're public infrastructure.

And when millions move out, we should be asking why.

What's your take?