Assessment of Physical Education Curriculum Implementation in Indian Schools: A Nationwide Study

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive assessment of the implementation of physical education (PE) curricula across Indian schools, aiming to evaluate the extent, quality, and challenges of its integration within the broader educational framework. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through surveys, interviews, and field observations from a representative sample of public and private schools across diverse geographic and socio-economic regions of India. The findings reveal significant disparities in curriculum execution, infrastructure availability, teacher training, and time allocation for PE. While national policies mandate structured PE programs, their implementation often falls short due to inadequate resources, low prioritization, and lack of trained personnel. Moreover, urban schools generally exhibit better compliance and facilities compared to their rural counterparts. The study underscores the urgent need for policy reinforcement, capacity-building for PE educators, and investment in sports infrastructure to promote holistic student development. Recommendations include standardizing curriculum delivery, integrating local sports, and enhancing monitoring mechanisms to ensure equitable access and quality of physical education nationwide.