A recent government report has revealed a significant surge in "shadow schooling" across India, with approximately one in three students now availing themselves of private coaching. The Comprehensive Modular Survey (CMS) on education, conducted by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), highlights the increasing prevalence of this trend, particularly in urban areas.

The survey, part of the 80th round of the National Sample Survey (NSS), encompassed over 52,000 households and nearly 58,000 students, providing a comprehensive assessment of household expenditure on schooling and tutoring. The findings paint a picture of an evolving education landscape where government schools remain dominant in rural India, while urban families are increasingly opting for private schools and supplementary coaching.

Urban-Rural Divide

The data indicates a clear disparity between urban and rural enrollment patterns. In rural areas, approximately two-thirds of students attend government schools. However, in urban centers, only 30.1% of students are enrolled in government schools, with a significant preference for private institutions among parents. Private unaided schools account for over half of urban enrollments. This preference is driven by higher incomes and aspirations in urban areas.

Financial Implications

The financial burden on families also varies significantly. Families with children in government schools spend an average of Rs 2,863 per student annually, while those with children in private schools spend nearly nine times more, averaging Rs 25,002. Course fees are a major contributor to this gap, with only a quarter of government school students paying them, compared to almost all private school students. Urban families spend considerably more on fees, uniforms, and books, with average course fees at Rs 15,143 per student, compared to Rs 3,979 in rural households.

The Rise of Private Coaching

Private coaching has emerged as a substantial expenditure for families. The survey reveals that 27% of students take private coaching, with higher rates in urban areas (30.7%) compared to rural areas (25.5%). Urban households spend an average of Rs 3,988 per child annually on coaching, while rural families spend Rs 1,793. At the higher secondary level, urban households spend nearly Rs 9,950 per student on coaching, while rural households spend Rs 4,548.

This trend of shadow schooling, where students receive supplementary tutoring outside of regular school hours, is not unique to India. It is increasingly prevalent in many countries and can be attributed to factors such as the desire to improve subject knowledge, prepare for competitive exams, and increase opportunities for higher education.

Implications and Concerns

While private tutoring can offer benefits such as personalized attention and improved academic performance, it also raises concerns about equity and accessibility. Students from disadvantaged backgrounds may not be able to afford private coaching, potentially exacerbating existing educational inequalities. The UNESCO has noted that if left unchecked, tutoring could widen social inequalities and put undue strain on students. There are also concerns that teachers may be incentivized to provide sub-standard education in schools in order to promote private tutoring.

Government Initiatives

Recognizing the need to regulate the burgeoning coaching industry, some state governments are taking steps to ensure transparency, accountability, and student welfare. The Assam government, for instance, has introduced the Assam Coaching Institutes (Control and Regulation) Bill, 2025, which mandates registration, transparency in fee structures, and the provision of mental health support for students. Maharashtra is also considering similar legislation to regulate private coaching centers and curb malpractices.

These initiatives aim to create a more equitable and regulated environment for private coaching, ensuring that it complements rather than undermines the formal education system. By addressing issues such as affordability, quality, and ethical practices, governments can strive to harness the potential benefits of shadow schooling while mitigating its negative consequences.