Source:TNN, Apr 2, 2010, 04.03am IST
NEW DELHI: A deep personal touch from PM Manmohan Singh and a promise that financial constraint will not hamper its implementation is all that the Right to Education Act needed on the first day.
HRD minister Kapil Sibal, who has been at the forefront of showcasing the RTE Act, took the backseat on Thursday. He even cancelled his pre-scheduled press conference.
Addressing the nation, the first ever by any PM on a law, Singh gave his own example to convey how education could ensure that no child stops dreaming. "I was born to a family of modest means. In my childhood I had to walk a long distance to go to school. I read under the dim light of a kerosene lamp. I am what I am today because of education," the PM said.
Singh, however, did not miss out on scoring the political point by stating that the first demand for Right to Education during the British rule was made by Gopal Krishna Gokhale, a Congressman.
The assertion is seen as necessary, considering that the the 86th constitutional amendment that made right to education a fundamental right was done during the NDA regime in 2002.
The PM's speech made a reference to the Constitution amendment that has also become operational but fell short of thanking BJP's efforts.
"This demonstrates our national commitment to the education of our children and to the future of India. We are a nation of young people. The health, education and creative abilities of our children and young people will determine the well-being and strength of our nation. Education is the key to progress. It empowers the individual. It enables a nation," he said.
The PM's speech tried to reach out to everyone. He said RTE should become a "national endeavour" for state governments, district and village administration, teachers, parents and civil society groups.
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