In India, learning and education are highly valued. However, across the country, educational institutions are understaffed, don\u2019t have sufficient infrastructure, there is a shortage of teachers and existing personnel don\u2019t have opportunities to upskill themselves. Is there a shortage of resources? Is India investing enough in education?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In terms of GDP percentage and government expenditure, India has been investing more than other Central and Southern Asian countries, says a report in The Times of India<\/em>. This is in contrast with the global trend of declining average investment in education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Between 2015 and 2024, India allocated approximately 4.1% to 4.6% of its GDP to education, aligning with international benchmarks set by \u2018Education 2030 Framework of Action<\/a>\u2019, which recommends that countries allocate 4% to 6% of their GDP to education, says the report.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A series of reports from the UNESCO Institute of Statistics on world education shows that India\u2019s government expenditure on education fluctuated between 13.5% and 17.2% during the same period. This aligns with the Education 2030 target that encourages governments to allocate 15% to 20% of their public expenditure to education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, experts feel that this can be upped. \u201cIf you look at the manifestoes of all political parties for the last four general elections, all of them have said that they will invest 6% GDP in education but no one has done it till date,\u201d says John Roberts, director, southern region, CRY.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cIn India, many schools are still grappling with a shortage of teachers. Many others do not have the basic infrastructure, even a roof overhead. Some state governments do not have the budget to print enough textbooks,\u201d says Merlia Shaukath, founder-CEO of Madhi Foundation, adding that education is also about the well-being of children in schools. \u201cTamil Nadu, for instance, has done well with the mid-day meal system. It has to be implemented in schools across the country as a child can\u2019t learn on an empty stomach. So investing in nutrition is investing in education.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Investing in education is crucial for the country\u2019s development as education lays the foundation for sustainable growth, social equity and global competitiveness. An educated population is essential for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Building a skilled workforce:<\/strong> As India transitions towards a more knowledge-based economy, there is an increasing demand for skilled professionals in sectors such as technology, healthcare, finance and engineering. Investing in education ensures that there are enough people equipped with necessary skills and knowledge who are ready to join the workforce.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n Investment in education also helps India build a skilled workforce that can compete in the global marketplace, especially in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology and renewable energy. Higher levels of education also promote research, innovation and technological advancements.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n Breaking the cycle of poverty, social impact: <\/strong>Access to quality education also means more employment opportunities, which is linked to higher income levels. This helps break the cycle of poverty by providing people from disadvantaged backgrounds with opportunities for upward mobility. Educating girls and women also has a great impact on social and economic outcomes — reducing instances of child marriage, improving maternal health<\/a> and increasing women’s participation in the workforce — all of which gives a boost to the country\u2019s growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Improved Public Health:<\/strong> Educated people are more equipped to understand health-related issues, adopt healthier lifestyles and make informed decisions about nutrition, sanitation and healthcare. That\u2019s why investment in education can contribute to improved public health outcomes, which in turn reduces the burden on the healthcare system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Stronger Democracy: <\/strong>Well-educated people are more likely to participate in democratic processes such as voting and community decision-making. This helps strengthen democracy and good governance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Promotes sustainable behaviour:<\/strong> In today\u2019s world, we are struggling to combat environmental challenges such as climate change, deforestation and pollution. Education can raise awareness about these issues and foster more sustainable behaviours. Educated people are more likely to adopt environmentally friendly practices and support sustainable policies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Helps bridge digital divide:<\/strong> It is essential for the country to invest in education that equips students with digital literacy and technological skills. This will help bridge the digital divide, ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic background, have access to the opportunities created by the digital economy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Leads to technological innovations:<\/strong> Investment in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education is critical for preparing students for future job markets. Education helps drive technological innovation, which can enhance productivity, improve lives and create new industries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Human development:<\/strong> A well-educated population is more resilient and adapts better to economic shocks, social change and global challenges. Education also helps cultivate leadership skills and critical thinking abilities, which are essential for fostering a new generation of leaders in all sectors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Union Budget 2024-25, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the Lok Sabha, allocated \u20b91.48 lakh crore for education, employment and skilling in India. The government will provide financial support for loans up to \u20b910 lakh for higher education in domestic institutions. It will upgrade 1,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) using a hub-and-spoke model, aligning course content with industry skill needs, and revising the model skill loan scheme. An internship scheme will be launched to provide opportunities for 1 crore youths in over 500 firms and 20 lakh youth will be skilled over the next five years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThere is a fundamental problem of education being underfunded, which is evidenced by how understaffed our schools are and how little resources they have. For the longest time, recommendations have been made for education budget to be increased to 6% GDP,\u201d says Merlia Shaukath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The funds that are being sanctioned are also underutilised, she says. \u201cThe states have to submit a budget to the Project Approval Board (PAB). The meetings happen in February or March. By the time it is approved and reaches the state, it is almost the end of the financial year. This means funds are both unutilised and underutilised,\u201d says Merlia, adding that this ineffective cycle puts a lot of pressure on the state governments. \u201cThey have prepared the education department to start implementation of various projects but can\u2019t do it without money in hand. So they have to look for back-up options in the state government\u2019s budget.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhy India Needs to Invest in Education<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How does Investing in Education Benefit the Country?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Union Budget prioritises Investment in Education<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Roadblocks that Need to be Addressed<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n