This article is about the Indian constitution and education for B.Ed. and is studied under contemporary India and education. Here we would look into the introduction of education in the Indian constitution. We would cover the meaning of the constitution, the Indian constitution, and its provisions for education.
Education in Indian Constitution
Meaning of Constitution
Let us now have a look at what is a constitution. A constitution is a
fundamental legal document according to which government of a country functions.
A constitution is superior to all other laws of the country. No law can be enacted which is not in accordance with the constitution.
A constitution is the source of power and authority of government. It tells the government about
- the powers of particular government bodies
- what things a government agency can or can not do
It is also an instrument of controlling the abuse of power by the government.
Indian Constitution Preamble
WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a SOVEREIGN, SOCIALIST, SECULAR DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC and to secure to all its citizens:
JUSTICE, social, economic and political;
LIBERTY of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship;
EQUALITY of status and of opportunity and to promote among them all
FRATERNITY assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation
IN OUR CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY this twenty-sixth day of November 1949, do HEREBY ADOPT, ENACT AND GIVE TO OURSELVES THIS CONSTITUTION
Indian Constitution and education
Indian Constitution provides for the educational functions of the government at all levels. It gives equal rights to people residing in India. For example
Article 21A gives the right to education according to which states shall provide free and compulsory education to all children between the age of six and fourteen. They are free to determine laws to ensure this.
Article 45 makes provisions for early childhood care and education to children below the age of 6 years. This responsibility comes under the state government.
According to Article 51 A(K) – Fundamental duties
It shall be the duty of every citizen of India who is parent or guardian to provide oppertunitiesfor education to his child, as the case may be ward between the age of six and fourteen years.
Under the guidance of the Indian constitution, an Indian Education commission was built in 1964-66. This commission was called the Kothari Commission. This commission was to advise the government on the national pattern of education. It also tells about general policies for the development of education for all stages.
Read our article on the Kothari Commission where you can study further about purpose, reports, and recommendations of this commission.
Educational Provisions in Indian Constitution
Following are the articles in the Indian constitution that are related to Education in Indian Constitution :
- Article 29 – provides equal opportunities in educational institutions.
- Article 30 – Provides minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions.
- Article 45 – provisions for free and compulsory education for all children till the age of fourteen years.
- Article 46 – talks about taking special care to promote education and economic interests of SC/STs and other weaker sections.
- Article 337 – provides special provisions to education for the Anglo-Indian community.
- Article 330 A – related to facilities for educational instructions in the mother tongue
- Article 351 – related to the development and promotion of the Hindi Language.
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