Indus Action Empowers 6 Million+ Students Through Right to Education Act
New Delhi: Indus Action, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to promoting access to education for vulnerable citizens, has unveiled its annual Bright Spot Report (BSR) 2023. This report highlights the implementation of the Right to Free and Compulsory Education Act (RTE Act). ) Section 12(1)(c) throughout India. Enacted in 2009, the RTE Act orders private unaided schools to reserve 25% of seats for economically weaker sections (EWS) and marginalized communities.
The BSR, launched in 2018, serves as a symbol of Indus Action’s commitment to capturing best practices and promoting equity within educational systems. Through careful analysis and data collection, the report provides insights into key trends, challenges, and recommendations to promote educational equity.
Indus Action’s interventions have facilitated over 608,612 enrollments under the RTE Act, empowered mothers with maternity benefits and supported workers in availing rights since 2013. However, challenges remain, particularly in reimbursement processes and the inclusion of children with special needs.
While some states like Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat show high private school participation, other states struggle with implementation. Only 18 states have implemented RTE 12(1)(c) as of February 2023, prompting the Supreme Court to intervene in non-implementing states.
Transparency and online systems are considered important for effective implementation. States with online submission and monitoring processes demonstrate higher approval rates for reimbursement. However, the lack of publicly accessible data presents a challenge in accurately assessing progress.
CEO of Indus Action, Tarun Cherukuri, underlines the importance of recognizing successful practices and informed policy decisions. He advocates for increased transparency, better data collection and practical policy measures to enhance RTE 12(1)(c) implementation.
Indus Action’s efforts have already benefited more than 6 million students, with the potential for greater impact before 2030. The organization remains steadfast in its commitment to collaborate with stakeholders to address the challenges and enhance the impact of RTE Section 12(1)(c) across the country.
Through BSR, Indus Action aims to drive positive change and promote educational access for all, ultimately reducing socio-economic disparities in India’s education landscape.
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