Why Right to Education Act Alone Cannot Solve the Existing Literacy and Socio Economic Problems in India

Charu Nautiyal 
(Principal Dunne’s Institute, Admiralty House, Wodehouse Road, Colaba Mumbai 400005, India)

Abstract: In 1947 number of literate Indians stood at a dismal 12%. Education was not a fundamental right of a citizen. Six decades later 30% Indians remain illiterate. Right to Education Act was passed by the Indian Parliament in 2009. A noble intent but difficult to achieve without proper action plan. Existing hurdles include poor infrastructure, lack of motivated teachers, gender disparity and poverty. There is little or no relationship between education and vocational education resulting in ever widening gulf between rich and poor. Prioritize Education and review the policy to adapt to our circumstances. Government must create proper infrastructure. Education at primary level must be holistic and inclusive and evaluation of the student must be comprehensive and not bookish. A nationwide debate including both intellectuals and common people, offering creative suggestions should be encouraged as it can bring us closer to our goal.

Key words: Right to Education Act, socio economic problems, India