This book provides a broad overview of the structure, development, policies, and challenges of elementary education in India. It examines the historical evolution of primary and upper-primary schooling, government initiatives for universal elementary education, teacher education, curriculum issues, educational administration, and the role of elementary education in national development.

The authors discuss major themes such as access to schooling, enrolment, retention, quality of education, rural–urban disparities, gender equality, educational planning, and the implementation of constitutional and policy commitments to free and compulsory education. The book is intended for students of education, teacher trainees, researchers, and policymakers interested in the Indian school education system.