Context

‘Shadow schooling’ has become an expanding phenomenon in India, especially in urban areas. While it fills the gaps left by the formal school system, it simultaneously increases inequality, creates financial strain, and puts psychological pressure on students.

What is "Shadow Schooling"?

• Shadow schooling refers to the practice where students take private coaching or tutoring in addition to their formal school education. It’s called "shadow" because it mirrors the school curriculum, but is offered outside the formal education system, usually for a fee.

Key Findings from the 2025 Comprehensive Modular Survey (CMS)

• National Average: Around 27% of students take private coaching.

• • Urban areas: 30.7%
  • Rural areas: 25.5%
• Expenditure:

• • Urban households spend ₹3,988 per child annually,
  • Rural households spend ₹1,793.
• Higher Secondary Level:

• • Urban spending ≈ ₹9,950 per student
  • Rural spending ≈ ₹4,548
• Age-wise coaching cost:

• • Pre-primary: ₹525
  • Higher secondary: ₹6,384
• Funding Source:

• • 95% of students rely on household funds,
  • Only 1.2% receive government scholarships.

Interpretation of the CMS Data

• Rising Competition and concerns over school quality are pushing parents towards external support.
• Lack of personalized attention and exam preparation in schools is compensated via private tuition.
• Urban areas have more access to coaching centres and higher parental spending capacity.

Core Concerns Around Shadow Schooling

Policy Recommendations

• Improve School Infrastructure: Better-trained teachers, inclusive learning tools, and modernized classrooms.
• Evaluate Coaching Impact: Research the long-term effects of shadow schooling on learning outcomes.
• Government Scholarships & Support: Expand scholarships, mentorship programs, and academic help for underprivileged students.
• Digital Interventions: Promote government e-learning platforms, digital tutorial libraries, and community-based academic resources.

Major Government Initiatives to Promote Formal Schooling (Tabular Format)