In Uttar Pradesh, India, the educational scenario is truly dismal. In 2002, 53 per cent of posts of principal, head teacher and vice principal were vacant. This has led even the poorer parents to look towards the low-cost private schools which, with their cost structure directly compete with public schools. Private schools are perceived as better alternatives because of the quality of education. However, there is a backlash to this – voucher schemes have emerged which encourage student selection, also pitting schools against one another. This has led to unwanted outcomes. Read more here.