Vol. 3, Issue 6, Part G (2017)

Abstract
The Indian Constitution envisages to provide Free and Compulsory Universal Education in the country to all the children of the age group of 6-14 years. When we look back even after 65 years of Independence we find that we have failed dismally in its implementation. Now too a overwhelming number of children are out of school due to discontinuation of their studies at Primary or Secondary level. Dropping out of school by children discontinuing their studies at one level or other without any obvious reason is termed as wastage, whereas continuing in the same class is termed as stagnation. The present study is conducted in Jujomura Block of Sambalpur District, Odisha. The study tries to elicit the causes of wastage and stagnation among the sample population and it further tries to find out the ways and means to minimize wastage and stagnation to facilitate Universal education. Data have been collected by using different qualitative methods like Indepth Interview, FGD and Observation. The wastage and stagnation are the main culprits in obstructing propagation of education and social upliftment of the masses and a menacing evil. The condition is rampant in the rural area and sub-urban slums where as it is more so in tribal areas. The reasons of wastage and stagnation are varied and many. Identifying the reasons and drawing out the modalities for minimizing the malady is the call of the hour.