Right To Education: Has The State Fulfilled Its Goal Of Universal Education?

Neha Uppin, LLM, Christ Deemed to Be University, Bengaluru

ABSTRACT

Education is the foundation of personal growth, fostering essential skills and knowledge. It empowers us to think critically, make informed decisions, and contribute meaningfully to society. Education opens doors to opportunities, breaking the cycle of poverty and promoting a brighter future. Ultimately, it is the key to unlocking each child's full potential and building a thriving, enlightened community. This paper delves into the critical role of educational systems in shaping individual character and personality. The state should provide free education to children because it is a fundamental human right, essential for individual empowerment and societal progress. It promotes social equality by ensuring that all children, regardless of background, have access to opportunities for personal development. Additionally, a well-educated population contributes to economic growth, innovation, and the overall well-being of the nation, making it a crucial responsibility of the state. India faces challenges in providing free education, including inadequate student-to-teacher ratios, limited government funding, and ineffective policy implementation. Taboos against female education in remote areas, a lack of skill-based schooling, and widespread illiteracy contribute to the slow progress. Decreasing public investment and a shift toward privatization further hinder the fulfilment of the Right to Education Act. The Right to Education Act of 2009 in India has faced challenges due to inadequate implementation, including a lack of infrastructure and qualified teachers. The continued struggle to fully realize its provisions underscores the need for comprehensive reforms to address these systemic issues. This article critically assesses the various legislative acts and policies implemented by the Indian government to ensure universal access to school education. Through an exploration of the existing challenges and shortcomings, the paper aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse on the effectiveness of education policies and the realization of the Right to education in India.