| Abstract: | Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) is a notable programme introduced by the Central government in 2001 to primarily focus on achieving universal elementary education. The programme was touted as the most comprehensive programme of all times taking into account various aspects of elementary education under its shelter from infrastructure funding to providing quality education, decentralization in management through involvement of local bodies, community mobilization and participation and teacher’s training. Subsequently, the programme has been introduced in Arunachal Pradesh and many changes has been noticed and achieved in the realm of elementary education. Scores of schools have been established, hundreds of teachers appointed and funds released to achieve the aim of universal elementary education in the state. Nevertheless, many problems have been reported as well. Field data analysis revealed that the programme indeed contributed to development and spread of elementary education to a considerable extent. The programme has been a game changer in realizing the aim of universal access to elementary education and enrolment of children but has failed to retain them. Idea of community mobilization and participation has not been realized due to lack of awareness among public. There is inconsistency in implementation of intervention programmes due to delay in disbursing funds and other factors. Thus, the paper is an effort to examine the implementation status of SSA in the Arunachal Pradesh. It enquires if the programme has been successful in ensuring universal access, universal enrolment and retention of children in schools. How does the community see it and to what extent the community participates in the programme? What are the hindrances if any of such persist is faced by the administrators in executing the programme? |
