For the first time, the number of female teachers in Indian schools has surpassed that of male teachers. According to the 2023-24 UDISE+ (Unified District Information System for Education Plus) report, women now constitute 53.3% of the teaching workforce in schools. Of the total 98 lakh teachers across 14.72 lakh schools in the country, 52.3 lakh are women.
Increase in Female Teachers Over the Last 5 Years
In 2018-19, there were 47.14 lakh female teachers. This number has risen steadily to 52.3 lakh in 2023-24, marking a 3.3% increase over five years. During this period, the proportion of male teachers has declined, now standing at 46.6%.
Key Data Highlights (2018-2024):
- 2018-19: Female teachers: 49.98%; Male teachers: 50%.
- 2019-20: Female teachers surpassed the 50% mark for the first time.
- 2023-24: Female teachers: 53.3%; Male teachers: 46.6%.
Private Schools See a 20% Rise in Female Teachers
The number of female teachers in private schools has grown significantly, registering a 20% increase over the last five years.
- 2018-19: Of 33.04 lakh private school teachers, 20.63 lakh (62%) were women.
- 2023-24: Of 37.30 lakh private school teachers, 24.76 lakh (66%) are women.
Government Schools See a Modest 6% Growth
In government schools, the increase in female teachers is comparatively lower.
- 2018-19: Of 49.47 lakh government school teachers, 43% were women.
- 2023-24: Female teachers grew to 22.65 lakh (6% increase), while male teachers declined to 27.72 lakh.
State-wise Data
Some states, such as Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, and Delhi, have more female teachers than male teachers in government schools.
- Kerala: 78% female teachers.
- Tamil Nadu: 67%.
- Punjab: 64%.
- Delhi: 61%.
Male Dominance in Higher Education
While the number of female teachers in schools has increased, higher education remains male-dominated.
- According to the AISHE (All India Survey on Higher Education) 2021-22, 57% of teachers in higher education are male, compared to 43% female.
- In 2018-19, the figures were similar, with 58% male and 42% female teachers.
The UDISE+ 2023-24 report highlights a steady rise in the participation of women in school education, particularly in private institutions. However, in higher education, the gender gap persists, with male teachers maintaining a significant lead. Achieving gender parity in higher education remains a challenge for the future.
