Reforms in India's Education System
The article discusses the transformative changes in India's education system under the Narendra Modi government, countering claims of neglect over the past 11 years.
Historical Context and Challenges
- Prior to recent reforms, India's education system was outdated, with the last major policy update in 1986 and minor amendments in 1992.
- Previous administrations maintained colonial mindsets, ignoring rapid technological advancements.
- Issues such as corruption, governance deficits, and political interference plagued the system.
- Public universities suffered from underfunding, while unregulated private institutions proliferated.
- Significant scandals, such as the 2009 Deemed University scandal, highlighted financial irregularities.
National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
The NEP 2020 marks a significant departure from past practices, emphasizing democratic consultation and focusing on five pillars:
- Access
- Equity
- Quality
- Affordability
- Accountability
Achievements and Progress
- Enrollment increases:
- Schedualed Castes (SC): 50%
- Schedualed Tribes (ST): 75%
- Other Backward Classes (OBC): 54%
- Women: 38.8%
- PhD enrollment among women: 135% increase
- Government expenditure per child grew from ₹10,780 in 2013-14 to ₹25,043 in 2021-22.
- Enhancements in infrastructure and pedagogy in government schools have improved learning outcomes.
Innovative Initiatives
- Introduction of coding from middle school.
- Establishment of Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) to foster innovation.
- Plans to increase ATLs with internet connectivity in schools.
- 11 Indian universities now rank in the QS World Rankings top 500.
Language and Cultural Revival
- NEP supports Indian languages and knowledge traditions, moving away from 'English-first' policies.
- The Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Yojana aims to publish 15,000 textbooks in 22 Indian languages.
Commitment to Social Justice
- The Central Educational Institutions (Reservation in Teachers’ Cadre) Act, 2019, enhances reservation for SCs, STs, and others.
- Elimination of "None Found Suitable" practice in university recruitment for reserved categories.
Vision for the Future
The government envisions an educational renaissance in the coming decade, emphasizing intellectual decolonization to propel India into developed nation status.
