Q1. Critically analyse various constitutional provisions for education in India. Highlight the provisions relating to Education as a fundamental right.
- Article 21A (86th Amendment, 2002) made free and compulsory education for 6-14 year olds a fundamental right.
- The Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, operationalized Article 21A, ensuring quality elementary education.
- Article 45 (DPSP) originally aimed for free education; now focuses on early childhood care below 6 years.
- Article 46 (DPSP) mandates promotion of educational interests for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and weaker sections.
Answer: The Indian Constitution lays a strong foundation for education, reflecting a profound commitment to human development and social justice. Initially, education was primarily addressed through Directive Principles, but it has progressively evolved into a justiciable fundamental right, underscoring its pivotal role in nation-building. Early constitutional provisions enshrined education as a crucial directive for state policy. Article 45, under the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP), origi...