The indicator “Number of Residential Schools with Boarding Facility” is an important measure of access, equity, and inclusiveness within the education system, particularly for students from disadvantaged and geographically remote backgrounds. Residential schools play a critical role in ensuring uninterrupted education for children who face barriers such as long travel distances, unsafe commuting conditions, poverty, or unstable home environments. Boarding facilities offer students a secure living environment, regular meals, and structured daily routines, which significantly contribute to improved attendance, retention, and learning outcomes. These schools are especially vital for students from tribal communities, migrant families, rural and hilly regions, and areas prone to conflict or disaster, where day schools may be inaccessible. For many first-generation learners, residential schooling offers academic support, mentorship, and exposure to a disciplined learning culture that may not be available at home.

From a gender and social equity perspective, residential schools help reduce dropout rates among girls and marginalised groups by addressing safety concerns and household responsibilities that often limit school participation. They also enable continuity of education during seasonal migration or economic disruptions. At a policy level, this indicator enables governments and development agencies to assess the reach and adequacy of residential education infrastructure, identify regional and social gaps, and plan targeted investments to support vulnerable populations and promote equal educational opportunities.