School Dropout Among Secondary Students: A Study of Two Indian States

In India, secondary education serves a critical stage for higher education and the workforce. However, it faces alarmingly high dropout rates. Despite widespread prevalence, its causes and effective intervention strategies remain unaddressed. Drawing on a sample of 154 government secondary schools, using mixed methods, chi-square test and binary logistic regression analysis, the article examines indicators and factors contributing to student dropout at the secondary level in two Indian states: Odisha and Assam. Findings of the study reveal that school distance, inadequate sports facilities, migration, child labour, and limited parental and community support significantly influence dropout in varying degrees, emphasising the need for targeted, context-specific interventions.