|
Forecast Period
|
2026-2030
|
|
Market Size (2024)
|
USD 52.36 Billion
|
|
CAGR (2025-2030)
|
12.5%
|
|
Fastest Growing
Segment
|
Secondary
|
|
Largest Market
|
North
|
|
Market Size (2030)
|
USD 106.15 Billion
|
Market Overview
India School Market was valued at USD 52.36
Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 106.15 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR
of 12.5% during the forecast period. The India School Market is a
multifaceted sector encompassing a wide range of educational services, infrastructure,
and associated products catering to the diverse educational needs of school-age
children. This market includes different types of schools, ranging from
government and private institutions to international schools, offering varied
curricula such as CBSE, ICSE, state boards, and international syllabi like IB
and Cambridge. India has the world's largest population of 580 million people aged 5 to 24, giving a great opportunity in the education sector. India has the highest number of school-going pupils, at over 250 million. The Study In India (SII) program seeks to enroll over half a million foreign students in higher education in India by 2047. The primary focus of the India School
Market is to provide formal education across pre-primary, primary, secondary,
and higher secondary levels. This market also covers vocational training and
skill development programs that supplement traditional education, preparing students
for higher education and employment. Key products within this market include
digital learning tools, textbooks, stationery, uniforms, and technological
infrastructure like smart classrooms. The market has seen a
significant rise in demand for online education platforms, educational apps,
and AI-driven personalized learning tools, especially post-pandemic. The India
School Market is heavily influenced by government policies and initiatives
aimed at improving the quality of education and increasing accessibility, such
as the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes holistic
development, multidisciplinary learning, and the use of technology in
education. The market is also shaped by socio-economic factors, parental
expectations, and the increasing penetration of technology in rural and urban
areas alike. The competitive landscape of this market is fragmented, with
numerous players ranging from traditional educational institutions to Ed-tech
startups. The market is witnessing rapid growth due to factors such as
increasing literacy rates, government initiatives for education reform, rising
disposable incomes, and a growing emphasis on quality education. Moreover, the
demand for international education and specialized schools is on the rise,
driven by the aspirations of a burgeoning middle class. The India School Market
is poised for significant expansion, with increasing private sector
participation, technological advancements, and evolving educational paradigms
that focus on skill-based learning and digital literacy.
Key Market Drivers
Government
Initiatives and Policies
Government initiatives and policies play
a crucial role in driving the India School Market. The introduction of the
National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 marks a significant shift in the Indian
education system, aiming to transform the traditional learning methods into
more holistic, flexible, and multidisciplinary approaches. The policy
emphasizes the importance of early childhood care and education (ECCE),
foundational literacy and numeracy, and the integration of technology at all
levels of education. The NEP 2020 also advocates for increased public spending
on education, which is expected to enhance the overall quality of education and
infrastructure in schools. Additionally, schemes like Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan
(SSA), the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, and the Right to Education (RTE) Act have
significantly improved access to education, particularly in rural and
underserved areas. The government’s push for digital education through
initiatives like the Digital India program and e-learning platforms such as
DIKSHA (Digital Infrastructure for Knowledge Sharing) has further boosted the
market by integrating technology into classrooms, making education more
accessible and interactive.Under the Interim Budget 2024-25, the Department of School Education & Literacy's budget allocation for FY 2024–2025 is Rs. 73,498 crores (USD 8.82 billion). The expansion of infrastructure through
initiatives like the Atal Tinkering Labs and the Pradhan Mantri Schools for
Rising India (PM SHRI) scheme also contribute to the growth of the market.
These initiatives aim to develop model schools with state-of-the-art
facilities, which not only improve the quality of education but also set
benchmarks for other institutions. The government's focus on skill development
through vocational training programs in schools aligns with the industry’s
demand for a skilled workforce, making education more relevant to the job
market. Further, public-private partnerships (PPPs) are being encouraged to
bring in expertise, resources, and management practices from the private sector
into government schools, thereby enhancing the quality of education.
Rising
Demand for Quality Education
The demand for quality education in
India is a significant driver of the school market, fueled by the aspirations
of an increasingly educated and economically empowered middle class. Parents
today are more aware of the importance of a well-rounded education that goes
beyond academic excellence to include extracurricular activities, life skills,
and global exposure. This shift in parental expectations is driving demand for
private and international schools that offer world-class infrastructure,
innovative teaching methods, and a curriculum that prepares students for global
opportunities. The proliferation of private schools offering CBSE, ICSE, and
international curricula like the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Cambridge
International Examinations (CIE) is a testament to this growing demand. These
schools often provide state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and a
wide range of extracurricular activities, attracting parents willing to invest
in their children's education.
The increasing competition for college
admissions, both in India and abroad, has led to a greater emphasis on holistic
development, encouraging schools to focus on overall student growth, including
cognitive, social, and emotional development. This has resulted in the rise of
schools that offer specialized programs, such as STEM education, arts and
humanities, and sports, catering to the diverse interests and talents of
students. The demand for quality education is also driving the adoption of
technology in schools, with smart classrooms, e-learning platforms, and
AI-driven personalized learning becoming increasingly common. Parents are
willing to pay a premium for schools that integrate technology into their
teaching methods, offering a more interactive and engaging learning experience
for their children.
Technological
Advancements in Education
The integration of technology in
education is revolutionizing the India School Market, making learning more
accessible, interactive, and personalized. The advent of digital classrooms,
e-learning platforms, and educational apps has transformed traditional teaching
methods, offering students a more engaging and immersive learning experience.
The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated the adoption of technology in
education, with schools rapidly transitioning to online learning platforms to
ensure continuity of education during lockdowns. Smart classrooms equipped with
interactive whiteboards, projectors, and internet connectivity are becoming
increasingly common in schools across India. These classrooms facilitate a
blended learning approach, combining traditional teaching with digital resources
such as videos, simulations, and online assessments, making learning more
interactive and engaging for students. The use of AI and machine learning in
education is also gaining traction, with personalized learning platforms that
adapt to the individual learning pace and style of each student, offering
tailored content and assessments.In FY22, Indian edtech businesses got a total of USD 3.94 billion in funding across 155 agreements. PhysicsWallah, an edtech platform, became India's 101st unicorn in June 2022 after collecting USD 100 million in Series-A funding from WestBridge Capital and GSV Ventures, valuing the company at USD 1.1 billion. The proliferation of smartphones and
internet connectivity has enabled the rise of e-learning platforms and
educational apps that provide students with access to quality education
anytime, anywhere. Platforms like BYJU'S, Unacademy, and Vedantu have gained immense
popularity, offering a wide range of courses and resources that supplement
traditional classroom learning. These platforms also offer live classes,
doubt-clearing sessions, and interactive quizzes, making learning more
interactive and student-centric. The government's push for digital education
through initiatives like the Digital India program and the establishment of
e-learning platforms like DIKSHA has further boosted the adoption of technology
in schools. These initiatives aim to bridge the digital divide and make quality
education accessible to students in remote and underserved areas.
Urbanization
and Socio-Economic Changes
Urbanization and socio-economic changes
are significant drivers of the India School Market, as they lead to increased
demand for education and better infrastructure in urban areas. The rapid
urbanization of India, with a growing number of people moving to cities for
better job opportunities and living conditions, has resulted in a rising demand
for quality schools in urban centers. This trend is particularly evident in
metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad, where the
demand for private and international schools offering world-class education is
on the rise. The increasing disposable incomes of urban households have also
led to a shift in parental expectations, with parents willing to invest more in
their children's education. This has driven the demand for schools that offer
modern infrastructure, innovative teaching methods, and a curriculum that
focuses on holistic development. The rise of dual-income families in urban
areas has further contributed to this trend, as parents seek schools that
provide a safe and nurturing environment for their children, with facilities
such as daycare and after-school programs.
The socio-economic changes brought about
by globalization and exposure to global education standards have led to a
growing demand for international schools in India. These schools offer
curricula like IB and Cambridge, which are recognized worldwide, making them an
attractive option for parents who aspire to send their children abroad for
higher education. The increasing number of expatriates and NRIs returning to
India has also contributed to the demand for international schools that offer a
global perspective in education. The shift towards nuclear families in urban
areas has led to a greater emphasis on education as a means of securing a
better future for children. This has resulted in a growing demand for schools
that offer a well-rounded education, focusing on academic excellence as well as
extracurricular activities, life skills, and character development.
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Key Market Challenges
Access
and Equity in Education
Despite significant progress in
improving access to education in India, achieving equity remains a major
challenge. The disparity in educational infrastructure, resources, and quality
between urban and rural areas, as well as between different socio-economic
groups, poses a significant barrier to achieving universal access to quality
education. Government schools, particularly in rural and underserved areas,
often suffer from inadequate infrastructure, shortage of qualified teachers,
and lack of basic amenities such as clean drinking water and sanitation
facilities. The Right to Education (RTE) Act mandates free and compulsory
education for children aged 6 to 14 years, but its implementation faces several
challenges, including insufficient funding, lack of awareness among parents,
and socio-cultural barriers such as child labor and early marriage. The high
dropout rates, particularly among girls and children from marginalized
communities, further exacerbate the issue of access and equity in education.
The digital divide remains a significant challenge, with students in rural
areas and low-income families having limited access to digital devices and
internet.
Infrastructural
Deficiencies
India's school market faces significant
infrastructural challenges, particularly in rural and remote areas. Despite
government initiatives such as the Right to Education Act and the Sarva Shiksha
Abhiyan, which aim to improve the quality of education, many schools still lack
basic facilities like adequate classrooms, sanitation, and drinking water. Poor infrastructure directly impacts student
attendance and learning outcomes. In rural areas, the absence of
well-maintained school buildings, libraries, and laboratories severely limits
the educational opportunities available to children. Moreover, the digital
divide exacerbates these issues, with many schools lacking access to the
internet and digital learning tools, further widening the gap between urban and
rural education. Addressing these infrastructural challenges requires
substantial investment from both the government and the private sector.
Public-private partnerships can play a crucial role in improving school
infrastructure, particularly in underserved areas. However, ensuring that these
initiatives are effectively implemented and reach the intended beneficiaries
remains a significant challenge.
Quality
of Education and Teacher Training
Another major challenge in the India school market is the quality of education, which is closely linked to the
availability of trained and motivated teachers. Despite various efforts to
improve teacher training and recruitment, there remains a significant shortage
of qualified teachers, particularly in subjects like mathematics, science, and
English. Many teachers, especially in rural areas, lack the necessary
qualifications and are often underpaid, leading to low motivation and high
turnover rates. The quality of teacher training programs is also inconsistent,
with many teachers not receiving adequate training in modern teaching methods
and technologies. This directly affects student performance, as poorly trained
teachers are unable to deliver the curriculum effectively or engage students in
the learning process. To address this challenge, there needs to be a focus on
improving teacher training programs and providing continuous professional
development opportunities for teachers. Additionally, better remuneration and
working conditions for teachers could help attract and retain qualified
professionals in the education sector.
Regulatory
and Policy Issues
The India school market is heavily
regulated, with numerous policies and guidelines governing the establishment,
operation, and management of schools. While these regulations are intended to
ensure the quality and accessibility of education, they often create
significant challenges for schools, particularly private institutions. One of
the key regulatory challenges is the complex and often inconsistent approval
processes for setting up new schools. Private school operators must navigate a
maze of bureaucratic hurdles, including obtaining multiple licenses and
adhering to various state-specific regulations. This not only increases the
cost of establishing new schools but also discourages potential investors from
entering the market.
Frequent changes in education policies
and regulations create uncertainty for schools, making it difficult for them to
plan and implement long-term strategies. For example, changes in the
curriculum, assessment methods, or teacher recruitment policies can disrupt
school operations and negatively impact students' learning experiences. To
overcome these challenges, there is a need for more streamlined and transparent
regulatory processes, as well as greater consistency in education policies
across states. Engaging with stakeholders, including private school operators
and educators, in the policy-making process can also help ensure that
regulations are practical and conducive to the growth of the school market.
Key Market Trends
Digital
Transformation in Education
The India school market is experiencing
a significant shift towards digital education, driven by the increasing
penetration of smartphones and the internet, particularly in urban areas. The
COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this trend, as schools were forced to
adopt online learning platforms to ensure continuity in education. The adoption
of digital tools in education is not limited to online classes. Schools are
increasingly incorporating technology into their teaching methods, using tools
such as smart boards, educational apps, and virtual reality to enhance the
learning experience. These technologies not only make learning more interactive
and engaging but also help cater to different learning styles, making education
more personalized.
The digital transformation of education
also presents challenges, particularly in terms of accessibility. While urban
schools are rapidly adopting digital tools, rural schools often lack the
necessary infrastructure, such as reliable internet connectivity and access to
digital devices. This has led to a digital divide, where students in urban
areas have access to a wealth of online resources, while those in rural areas
are left behind. To address this issue, there is a need for targeted government
initiatives to improve digital infrastructure in rural areas. Public-private
partnerships can also play a crucial role in bridging the digital divide, with
private companies providing technology and training to schools in underserved
areas. Efforts should be made to ensure that digital education is inclusive,
with content and platforms available in multiple languages and accessible to
students with disabilities.
Increasing
Focus on Holistic Education
Another key trend in the India school
market is the increasing focus on holistic education, which emphasizes the
development of the whole child, including their physical, emotional, and social
well-being, in addition to academic achievement. This trend is being driven by
growing awareness of the importance of mental health and well-being,
particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Holistic education includes
a range of activities and programs aimed at promoting physical fitness,
emotional resilience, and social skills. Schools are increasingly incorporating
physical education, yoga, and mindfulness programs into their curricula, as
well as offering extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and art,
which help students develop a range of skills and interests. One of the key
drivers of this trend is the growing concern about the impact of academic
pressure on students' mental health. With increasing competition for college
admissions and jobs, students are under more pressure than ever to perform well
academically. This has led to a rise in stress and anxiety among students,
prompting schools to focus more on mental health and well-being.
Segmental Insights
Level
of Education Insights
In the India School Market, the primary
education segment is the leading segment based on the level of education. The
primary education segment in India has the highest enrolment numbers compared
to other segments. This is primarily because primary education (typically
covering Grades 1 to 5) is mandatory and forms the foundation of a child's
education. Several government initiatives, such as the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan
(SSA) and the Right to Education (RTE) Act, have focused heavily on improving
access to primary education across the country. These programs have
significantly increased enrolment rates in primary schools, particularly in
rural and underserved areas. Primary education is crucial for developing basic
literacy and numeracy skills. There is a strong emphasis on ensuring that all
children acquire these fundamental skills, leading to a higher focus on the
primary segment. There is an increasing awareness among parents about the
importance of early childhood education, which often leads to an emphasis on
quality primary education. The growth of pre-primary education (kindergarten)
also feeds into the primary segment, ensuring that children are prepared for
formal schooling from an early age. A significant portion of government
spending on education is allocated to primary education. This includes funding
for infrastructure, teacher training, mid-day meal programs, and learning
materials, all aimed at improving the quality and reach of primary education. The
government's policies aimed at achieving universal access to education have
been particularly effective at the primary level, ensuring that almost all
children of school-going age are enrolled in primary schools. Primary schools
are widespread across both urban and rural areas, with almost every village in
India having access to at least one primary school. This extensive reach
further cements primary education as the leading segment. The quality of
education at the primary level is a priority, with various programs aimed at
improving teacher quality, curriculum, and student outcomes. The National
Education Policy (NEP) 2020 also emphasizes foundational literacy and numeracy,
further highlighting the importance of the primary segment. Given these
factors, the Primary Education segment holds a dominant position in the India school market, driven by government support, widespread access, and the
critical role it plays in the overall education system.
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Regional Insights
In the India school market, the North
region emerges as a leading area due to several key factors. The North region
includes states like Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Rajasthan,
which are known for their strong emphasis on education and significant
investments in educational infrastructure. The North region, particularly Delhi
NCR, is economically prosperous, allowing for higher educational expenditure.
This prosperity translates into better facilities, higher enrollment rates, and
a competitive academic environment.
The governments in this region have
implemented various policies aimed at improving education. For instance,
initiatives like the Midday Meal Scheme and scholarships for economically
disadvantaged students have bolstered enrollment and retention rates. The North
is home to some of India's most prestigious schools and educational
institutions, including those affiliated with Central Boards like CBSE (Central
Board of Secondary Education) and ICSE (Indian Certificate of Secondary
Education). This concentration of quality institutions attracts students from
across the country. Rapid urbanization in cities like Delhi, Gurgaon, and Noida
has led to the development of world-class educational infrastructure. This
region is also a hub for educational technology companies, further enhancing
the quality of education. States like Delhi and Haryana boast higher literacy
rates, which reflect the importance placed on education by the population. This
cultural emphasis on education has driven demand for better schools and
educational services. The North region's leadership in the India school market
is characterized by its strong economic base, governmental support, urban
development, and a deep-rooted cultural value placed on education.
Recent Developments
- In 2024, the
first-ever AI school has launched its Kerala, which offers a technology-driven
educational experience by integrating AI technologies like machine learning,
natural language processing, and data analysis into various aspects of
education. The school aims to provide personalized support services, holistic
skill development, competitive exam preparation, and guidance for pursuing
higher education, all while using advanced technology at a low cost.
- In 2024,
Kerala school, KTCT Higher Secondary School, has launched Iris, the first
generative AI teacher in India. Kerala,
a pioneer in education, has revolutionized the learning experience. Developed
by Makerlabs Edutech, Iris is a humanoid equipped with advanced features like
voice assistance, interactive learning modules, and mobility, designed to
provide a personalized and engaging learning journey for students. Iris's
integration of Robotics and Generative AI technologies, powered by an Intel
processor, promises to transform traditional teaching methods and pave the way
for innovative educational advancements in Kerala.
- In 2024,
The Ministry of Education has launched the 'Prerana: An Experiential Learning
Programme' for students in Classes 9 to 12, a weekly residential initiative
held at a vernacular school in Mehsana, Gujarat. The program aims to provide
participants with a meaningful, distinctive, and exciting experience,
ultimately equipping them with leadership abilities through a comprehensive
learning approach.
Key Market Players
- St. Xavier's Collegiate School
- The Doon School
- Shree Swaminarayan Gurukul International
School
- Little Flowers Public Sr. Sec School
- The Mother's International School
- Bombay Scottish School
- St. John's High School
- Sainik School
- Greenwood High International School
- Emerald Heights International School
|
By Level of Education
|
By Ownership
|
By Board of
Affiliation
|
By Region
|
- Primary
- Upper Primary
- Secondary
- Higher Secondary
|
- Government
- Local Body
- Private Aided
- Private Unaided
|
- Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)
- Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE)
- State Government Boards
- Others (NIOS, IBs, etc.)
|
|
Report Scope:
In this report, the India School market has been
segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends
which have also been detailed below:
- India School Market, By Level of
Education:
o Primary
o Upper Primary
o Secondary
o Higher Secondary
- India School Market, By Ownership:
o Government
o Local Body
o Private Aided
o Private Unaided
- India School Market, By Board of
Affiliation:
o Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)
o Council for the Indian School Certificate
Examinations (CISCE)
o State Government Boards
o Others (NIOS, IBs, etc.)
- India School Market, By Region:
o North
o South
o East
o West
Competitive Landscape
Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents
in the India School Market.
Available Customizations:
India School Market report with the given market
data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific
needs. The following customization options are available for the report:
Company Information
- Detailed analysis and
profiling of additional market players (up to five).
India School Market is
an upcoming report to be released soon. If you wish an early delivery of this
report or want to confirm the date of release, please contact us at [email protected]