abstract

This paper examines the implementation and sociological effects of the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, by synthesizing government statistics, national evaluations, and academic studies. Using district-level secondary data (district statistical books, UDISE/UDISE+ summaries) and national evaluations and surveys (SSA evaluation reports, ASER, NIEPA, World Bank analyses), the paper assesses SSA’s achievements and persistent challenges in Chamoli with respect to access, equity (gender and marginalised groups), infrastructure, teacher availability, and learning outcomes. The study highlights how Chamoli’s mountainous geography, seasonal migration, and small-habitation settlement patterns shape SSA outcomes. Policy and programmatic recommendations are proposed to strengthen learning outcomes, teacher support, and community engagement.