The educators and policymakers are called upon to transcend ideological divides and lead India toward inclusive progress and innovation
The most comprehensive initiative in education in post-independence India was the report of the National Commission on Education, usually referred to as the Kothari Commission. It submitted its report entitled “Education for National Development’ on June 29, 1968. The first two sentences say it all: “The destiny of India is now being shaped in its classrooms. This, we believe, is no rhetoric.” It was this report that led to the first national education policy of 1968. For the first time, science and mathematics became compulsory for both boys and girls up to tenth standard!
Yes, it was generally believed that only boys could handle the tough subjects of science and mathematics, and girls could opt for lighter options of spinning weaving, home science; and the like! The compulsory study of science and math was resisted and opposed as being unjust and unfair to girls! This one change transformed the lives of millions of girls and has brought global accolades to the Indian advancements in the world of science, technology, ICT and space research. Policies once formulated and formalised deserve support in vigilant implementation, persistent monitoring, and scrutiny based on their relevance ‘in the great enterprise of national reconstruction’. India today has great challenges ahead, both national as well as global