Great! Let's now proceed with UNIT-II, Question 4 – a full, B.Ed-style long answer for 16 marks.
✅ UNIT – II
Q4. Describe the provisions of education given in the Constitution for Indian citizens.
Answer:
Introduction:
The Constitution of India provides several provisions for education to ensure equality, justice, and access to all citizens. Education is not only a fundamental right but also a powerful tool for social and national development.
Key Educational Provisions in the Indian Constitution:
1. Article 21-A – Right to Education (RTE):
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Added by the 86th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2002.
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Provides free and compulsory education to all children aged 6 to 14 years.
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Made education a Fundamental Right.
2. Article 45 – Early Childhood Care and Education:
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Part of Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP).
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The State shall endeavor to provide early childhood care and education for all children until they complete the age of 6 years.
3. Article 46 – Promotion of Education among Weaker Sections:
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The State shall promote the educational and economic interests of Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and other weaker sections.
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Special care for their protection from social injustice and exploitation.
4. Article 15(4) and 15(5) – Special Provisions for Educational Upliftment:
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Empower the State to make special provisions for the advancement of socially and educationally backward classes.
5. Article 30 – Rights of Minorities:
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Religious and linguistic minorities have the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.
6. Article 29 – Cultural and Educational Rights:
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Protects the rights of any section of citizens to conserve their language, script, or culture.
7. Article 51A(k) – Fundamental Duty of Parents:
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It is the duty of every parent or guardian to provide opportunities for education to their children between 6 and 14 years of age.
Significance of Constitutional Provisions:
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These provisions ensure equal access to education regardless of caste, class, gender, or religion.
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Help eliminate illiteracy, inequality, and social discrimination.
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Promote inclusive and equitable education as envisioned in national policies like NEP 2020.
Conclusion:
The Indian Constitution provides a strong framework for educational development, ensuring that education becomes a right and not a privilege. It reflects the vision of a just and educated society, which is essential for the progress of any democratic nation.
Next: Shall I continue with Q5 – Fundamental Rights and Duties related to education from Unit-II?