Correct option is A
The 86th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2002, inserted Article 21A in the Indian Constitution, making the Right to Education (RTE) a fundamental right. This amendment mandates that free and compulsory education must be provided to all children between the ages of 6 and 14 years by the state. The Right to Education Act (RTE), 2009, was later enacted to implement this constitutional provision effectively.
Information Booster:
- Article 21A: Ensures free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14 years.
- RTE Act, 2009: Lays down the framework for the implementation of universal elementary education.
- Fundamental Right: Right to Education is included under Part III of the Constitution as a fundamental right.
- Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP): The amendment modified Article 45, which initially directed the state to provide free education to children up to 14 years but was not legally enforceable before the amendment.
- Article 51A(k): Imposes a fundamental duty on parents/guardians to ensure their children receive education.
- Impact on Education System: Helped increase school enrollment rates, reduce dropout rates, and improve literacy levels in India.
- Significance: Considered a landmark reform in India's education policy, promoting inclusive and equitable education.