India’s higher education landscape expands, female participation gains momentum

India’s higher education ecosystem has witnessed significant expansion over the past decade, with student participation reaching a new high in 2023–24. According to data from the All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE), the total number of students enrolled in higher education increased to around 4.50 crore, compared with 3.42 crore in 2014–15. This represents a growth of 31.5 per cent over the period.

One of the most notable developments has been the growing presence of women in higher education. Female enrolment reached approximately 2.24 crore in 2023–24, compared with 1.57 crore a decade earlier, marking a 42.2 per cent increase. The Gender Parity Index also remained above 1, indicating that female participation continues to compare favourably with male participation.

The overall Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) among the 18–23 age group rose to 30 per cent, up from 23.7 per cent in 2014–15. Female GER stood at 31.2 per cent, further highlighting the progress in women’s access to colleges and universities.

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Participation among socially disadvantaged communities has also improved. Enrolment among SC, ST and OBC students recorded substantial growth during the decade. Meanwhile, STEM education crossed the one-crore enrolment mark, reflecting increasing interest in science and technology-oriented programmes.

The findings point towards a broader and more inclusive higher education system, while also highlighting the need for continued efforts to improve accessibility, quality and learning opportunities across India.

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