Abstract

The persistence of education inequality remains a significant challenge in both developed and developing regions, contributing to pronounced regional disparities. This issue is also widespread in Nagaland, an Indian state that has struggled with development despite achieving statehood over half a century ago. The paper highlights the state’s significant strides in realizing the goals of the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan program, which has played a crucial role in enhancing access to education, improving academic resources, and addressing gender disparities. The findings underscore the importance of using the Gini coefficient to identify areas requiring attention and investment, particularly in districts with higher levels of inequality. The study includes the districts of Dimapur, Kohima, Longleng, and Kiphire, selected based on per capita income. Based on access and infrastructure, Kohima and Dimapur score above the other two districts. In terms of gender parity, there is stagnancy in all the districts. Furthermore, policymakers and educators can benefit from the paper’s insights to better understand educational inequality in Nagaland and develop effective strategies to address the issue. Finally, the study underscores the importance of reducing educational disparities in Nagaland and establishing an equitable education system that provides quality educational opportunities to all students.