The education budget, say experts, has continued with its stress on higher education. The overall planned budget for higher education has been proposed to be increased by Rs2,000 crore over the interim estimates.
“The demographic advantage India has in terms of a large percentage of young population needs to be converted into a dynamic economic advantage by providing them the right education and skills,” said finance minister Pranab Mukherjee in his speech.
However, academicians emphasise that what is crucial now is proper execution of all schemes. B Venkatesh Kumar, political analyst, Mumbai University, said that the budget shows commitment towards focus on expansion and access to higher education, but what is now required is a focus on the outcomes rather than the processes. “Some of the features indicate deeper understanding on issues of equity and inclusion. By taking certain steps like promoting vocational education through interest subsidies on loans, there’s clear stress on skills upgradation,” he said.
To enable students from economically weaker sections to access higher education, scheme to provide them full interest subsidy during moratorium period has been proposed. The budget has also announced the decision to launch a National Mission for female literacy. “It’s very heartening and encouraging to see the emphasis given to expansion with diversity and inclusivity,” said Indu Shahani, H R College principal.
Madhavi Pethe, principal of M L Dahanukar College, said that the government’s initiative on vocational education will be a real boost to higher education. “The focus should definitely on be the higher education, but more newer schemes should be introduced in elementary education as well.Research in pure sciences should be encouraged more in the budgetary allocations,” she added.
The provision for setting up and upgrading polytechnics under the skill development mission has been increased to Rs495 crore. “The Knowledge Commission has suggested 1:3 ratio of engineering and polytechnic institutes. In this respect, allocation is good. We can improve existing polytechnics and gross enrollment ratio in states. Money would also be used for new institutes,” said Abhay Wagh, joint director, technical education, Maharashtra.
The budget also announced creation of a Central University in each uncovered state. “These should be well-planned so that we are truly able to create centres of excellence,” said Kumar. Added Shahani: “This will also bring in additional employment and students will be able to remain in their own hometown.”
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