Rajya Sabha resolution seeks free, compulsory early childhood care

Rajya Sabha on Friday discussed a private member’s resolution moved by nominated MP Sudha Murty urging the Union government to consider steps to amend the Constitution to introduce a new Article 21B guaranteeing free and compulsory early childhood care and education (ECCE), including nutrition, health services, and pre-primary learning, for all children between three and six years of age. The resolution also sought universal access to quality ECCE through strengthened Anganwadi services and asked the government to focus on ECCE for its central role in securing strong foundations for lifelong learning and development.

“Children are our future. They are the rising Sun. Their early education should benefit their life. Hence I request through you sir to our government to consider amending our Constitution to give fundamental right to education from six to 14 years to three to 14 years,” Ms. Murty said, moving the resolution.

Members cutting across political affiliations supported the resolution. The discussion was inconclusive and will continue at the next occasion when private members’ resolutions are taken up.

Bharatiya Janata Party MP Medha Vishram Kulkarni said governments should provide more financial assistance for anganwadis in urban areas so that they can afford rents. Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam member P. Wilson said compulsory education cannot be confined to elementary levels alone. “It must be progressively extended to cover all students up to class 12 ensuring continuity, equity and universal access to quality schooling,” Mr. Wilson said. Aam Aadmi Party member Swati Maliwal said reform in Anganwadi services is not optional but an imperative for the nation as they are the only option available for poor people.