This book examines the state of the Open and Distance Learning (ODL)-based secondary education in India. ODL-based education has been a key resource for children in India who can neither cope with nor avail of regular schooling opportunities due to economic, health and disability, or other constraints.

The volume uses large-scale empirical data collected from various Indian states and a sensitive theoretical framework to study the equity, efficiency, and effectiveness of the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) and the State Open School (SOS). Highlighting the roadblocks and barriers in terms of its reach, inclusion, and delivery, particularly to the marginalised, this book explores whether ODL has a potential of being a sustainable and effective option at the secondary and senior secondary level in India. Thus, it seeks to generate policy discourse around delivery mechanisms and effectiveness of ODL in developing countries.

First of its kind, this comprehensive volume will be useful for scholars and researchers of education, education policy, public policy, and political studies.

Jyotsna Jha presently heads the Centre for Budget and Policy Studies (CBPS), Bangalore, India. CBPS is an independent non-profit, non-governmental organisation that focuses on research in gender, education, social and economic policies, budgeting, decentralization, and governance issues.

Neha Ghatak is a research advisor at the Centre for Budget and Policy Studies, Bangalore, India.

Puja Minni is a research advisor at the Centre for Budget and Policy Studies, Bangalore, India.

Shobhita Rajagopal is Associate Professor at the Institute of Development Studies, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.

Shreekanth Mahendiran is a research advisor at the Centre for Budget and Policy Studies, Bangalore, India.