India, Feb. 20 -- After witnessing a steady decline for three consecutive years, the school dropout rate in Odisha has risen again, increasing from 12 per cent to 15 per cent in the 2024-25 academic year. Odisha History Book

The concerning figures were revealed in the Odisha Legislative Assembly, painting a grim picture of student retention in schools across the state.

Sharpest dropouts recorded in Classes IX and X The data, shared by School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond in response to a question in the House, shows that the highest dropout rate has been recorded in Classes IX and X.

Boys leaving school at higher rate than girls As per the 2024-25 figures, nearly 15 per cent of students dropped out at the secondary level...