Parliament proceedings | More than 42,000 government schools lack drinking water supply, 15,000 lack toilets: Minister

Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ said on Thursday that more than 42,000 government schools across the country do not have drinking water facilities, while more than 15,000 schools do not have toilets.

The minister quoted figures from the Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE) in response to a written question in the Rajya Sabha.

“As per UDISE, 2018-19, out of the total 10,83,747 government schools in the country, 10,41,327 government schools have drinking water facilities and 10,68,726 government schools have toilets,” he said in his written reply.

“States and UTs have been repeatedly advised to ensure that there are separate toilets and safe for boys and girls in all schools, including non-governmental sectors (private, aided schools, etc.) under their jurisdiction. And there should be a provision for adequate drinking. Water facilities for all children, ”the minister said.