Prakash Javadekar: New education policy not to infringe states’ rights

Union human resource development minister Prakash Javadekar on Thursday alla-yed apprehensions about the draft national education policy and stated that it would not infringe on the rights of the states. He also clarified that there is no proposal for holding morning prayers in schools.

Speaking in the Rajya Sabha while replying to a question on new national policy, Mr Javadekar said there is no such proposal for introduction of morning prayers in schools.

To another question on whether the new policy will encroach upon the states’ rights, he said, “It is not taking away powers of the states. Rather, we are working with them as partners. The attempt is to make the education system better and improve its quality.”

The minister, however, did not reply to a specific query on “saffronisation” of education, which was made by some Congress and Left members in the presence of the Prime Minister. Education is an issue that concerns everyone and should be made a national mission, he said, adding that the government will welcome suggestions of all MPs “which we would accept till August 15”.

Replying to concerns on whether the new policy would affect missionary schools, he said, “Any institution working within rules need not worry at all. We will appreciate the good role played by such institutions.”

“The last education policy was made in 1986 and implemented in 1992. That is why there is need for a good policy that would take the country forward. We have come out with the draft education policy after holding several rounds of discussions across the country. Suggestions were invited from all on it till July 31, but we want that all MPs should also make their suggestions on the draft policy and we would be ready to accept them till August 15,” he informed the Rajya Sabha .