NGO-government partnerships have been recognized as important for improving education quality in India, but factors can influence these partnerships and their impact. This study examines structural, behavioral, cultural, and contextual factors through a case study of Pratham's partnership with the Jehanabad district government in Bihar. The analysis found the partnership improved learning levels but various factors inhibited continuity and sustainability. For NGO-government partnerships to successfully improve education quality in India, the summary suggests they require an outcome-focused policy framework, a cooperative approach to interaction, preparation for changes in personnel, and aligned motivations among actors at all levels.