Article 21A: Right to Education
The State shall provide free and compulsory education to all children of the age of six to fourteen years in such manner as the State may, by law, determine.
Explanation
Article 21A establishes the right to free and compulsory education for children aged six to fourteen. Added through the 86th Amendment in 2002 and operational since April 1, 2010, it enshrines education as a fundamental right, essential for equality of opportunity and the development of every child.
Key Aspects of Article 21A
- Free and Compulsory Education: Guarantees that every child has access to education, eliminating barriers due to socio-economic status.
- Legislative Backing: Implemented through the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 (RTE Act), which outlines responsibilities for ensuring quality education for all.
Real-Life Applications
In the State of Tamil Nadu v. K. Shyam Sunder, the Supreme Court emphasized the State's obligation to maintain uniform standards in primary education, reinforcing Article 21A's objectives for quality education.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Article 21A guarantees the right to free and compulsory education for children aged six to fourteen years in India.
The RTE Act provides a framework for implementing Article 21A, ensuring accessible and quality education for every child.
Through provisions in the RTE Act, the government mandates uniform standards for education, aiming to provide quality education nationwide.