Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha - Nationalist Congress Party | Member of Standing Committees on Women Empowerment, FC&PD | Former Minister for GAD, Education, Health & WCD Government of Maharashtra
"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." As we mark the third anniversary of the NIPUN Bharat Mission, I stand before you with a sense of urgency and responsibility. This mission, aimed at ensuring foundational literacy and numeracy for every child, is not merely an educational initiative; it is the foundation of our nation's future. With only three years left to achieve its ambitious goals, it is crucial that we intensify our efforts. Time is of the essence, and the stakes could not be higher. The future of our children, and indeed the future of India, hinges on our ability to equip every child with the basic literacy and numeracy skills essential for life. The journey so far has had its challenges. While progress has been made, significant gaps remain that demand immediate attention. Setting targets alone is insufficient; we must ensure continuous commitment and decisive action to meet these goals. First and foremost, I call upon the Government to ensure every child receives the quality foundational education they deserve. This necessitates more than mere enrolment; it requires conducive learning environments, well-trained teachers, accessible educational resources, and relevant curricula. Second, achieving our goals demands a united effort from both the Centre and the States. Education is a shared responsibility, requiring collaborative efforts with clear plans, adequate funding, and robust monitoring mechanisms by 2026–27. Third, our focus must sharpen on educational quality. Attendance alone is insufficient; true learning must be prioritised at an early age, laying a strong foundation for higher education and future success. and lastly, we must remember that education is the great equaliser. By ensuring every child's access to quality foundational education, we invest not only in their future but also in India's future. We empower our children to build an innovative, inclusive India capable of global leadership. In conclusion, I call upon the fellow policymakers, educators, parents, and citizens alike to commit to the success of the #NIPUNBharatMission. We must tirelessly work towards ensuring every child in India has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
