Digital Learning and Foundational Skills Enhancement: Evidence from the NEEV Program Implementation in Haryana Government Schools

The NEEV (Neev Program for Secondary Classes) initiative represents a state-wide digital learning intervention designed to enhance Mathematics and Science learning outcomes among students in Grades 9 and 10 across Haryana government schools. Implemented through a structured Program Management Unit (PMU) model by SCERT Haryana in collaboration with Avanti Fellows, the program combines personalized interactive learning objects (PLIOs), live virtual classes, and robust monitoring systems. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the NEEV program across 66 schools with 11,483 students during the 2024-25 academic years. Using a difference in difference (DiD) framework with control group comparisons and paired t-tests on standardized assessments, findings demonstrate statistically significant positive effects in Science learning (β = 0.318 for Grade 10, p < 0.001; β = 0.373 for Grade 9, p < 0.001), with marginal but positive trends in Mathematics. Content analysis reveals high student engagement in digital learning platforms, with average attempt rates of 70-88% across chapters and accuracy rates of 40-60%. The PMU model outperformed the parallel Sandbox model, with 15% higher accuracy rates. School and board exam results show significant improvement in Science (0.22 standard deviations, p < 0.05) but statistically insignificant gains in Mathematics. The research underscores the viability of bichronous learning models for government school contexts and provides evidence for scaling digital education interventions. Recommendations focus on expanding infrastructure, intensifying teacher capacity-building, and enhancing parental engagement to sustain and amplify educational gains.