Quality education begins with access to qualified teachers and supportive learning environments. The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009 prescribes a pupil–teacher ratio (PTR) of 30:1 at the primary level and 35:1 at the upper primary level. According to the Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE), the national PTR stands at 24:1 for elementary schools and 27:1 for secondary schools. While these figures reflect overall progress, many rural schools continue to face teacher shortages that impact the quality of education and learning outcomes.
To address this challenge, Jindal Foundation, in collaboration with the Office of the District Education Officer, launched the Community Teachers Programme in 2010. The initiative supports primary, upper primary, and high schools by engaging qualified voluntary community teachers to bridge critical staffing gaps. By improving pupil–teacher ratios, strengthening classroom instruction, promoting full student enrolment, and reducing dropout rates, the programme helps create an inclusive learning environment where every child receives the attention and support needed to thrive.