National Education Day is celebrated on November 11 to honor Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, India’s first Education Minister, on his birth anniversary.
The Government of India declared this day in September 2008 and this day emphasizes the importance of education in shaping India’s future and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad’s contribution to the country’s education system.
The government made primary education free and compulsory by amending the Constitution through the 86th Amendment under Article 21-A, ensuring free education for children aged 6 to 14 as a Fundamental Right.
The Ministry of Education, Government of India, released the All-India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) 2021-2022 in January 2024.
Increased Enrollment: Growth in student enrolment and stronger infrastructure.
Greater Inclusivity: More enrolment from disadvantaged groups (SC, ST, OBC, minorities).
Female Enrollment: Rose 32% from 1.57 crore (2014-15) to 2.07 crore (2021-22).
Gender Parity Index (GPI): Reached 1.01, with more females than males in higher education.
Government’s Initiatives to build an inclusive and equitable educational system.
Scheme Name
Launched Year
Objective
NEP 2020
29th July, 2020
Aims to overhaul India’s education system for the 21st-century needs.
PM SHRI
7th September 2022
Aims to improve 14,500+ schools in India, implementing the National Education Policy 2020.
Samagra Shiksha
1st April, 2021
Provides inclusive and equitable education to all children.
PRERNA
January 15th, 2024, to February 17th, 2024
A week-long residential program blending heritage and innovation for selected students from class IX to XII.
ULLAS
For the period FY 2022-2027
Empower adults aged 15+ with literacy skills, aiming to integrate them into society.
NIPUN Bharat
5th July 2021
Ensure foundational literacy and numeracy for all children by Grade 3 by 2026-27.
Vidya Pravesh
29th July 2021
To Provide a smooth, welcoming transition for children entering Grade 1.
Vidyanjali
7th September 2021
Encourage community involvement and CSR contributions to improve school education.
DIKSHA
5th September 2017
To Enhance teacher training and professional development through innovative solutions.
SWAYAM Plus
27th February 2024
Improves employability by recognizing industry-relevant courses and promoting skill development.
NISHTHA
21st August 2019
Develops professional skills of 42 lakh teachers, with online adaptation post-COVID.
NIRF Ranking
29th September 2015
Introduces a transparent system for ranking universities, fostering competition and improvement.
PM-Vidyalaxmi scheme
2024
Provides financial assistance to meritorious students for higher education, benefiting 22 lakh students annually.
