Bhubaneswar, Sept. 7 -- https://images.odishatv.in/uploadimage/library/16_9/16_9_0/recent_photo_1757258345.webp

Education is considered the foundation of human life, empowering individuals with knowledge, skills, and awareness. Yet, in tribal-dominated districts like Koraput and Kalahandi, the education system is facing a severe challenge with an alarming rise in school dropouts.

The education system presents a grim picture in both districts. Dropouts among children aged 7 to 18 years are steadily rising. Instead of holding books and pens, children are being forced into daily wage labour. Many are entering into child marriages, leaving education behind.

In the Koraput district, more than 19,500 children have dropped out of school. Offici...