Correct option is D
Correct Answer: D 2002
Explanation:
Article 21-A was inserted into the Constitution of India through the 86th Constitutional Amendment Act of 2002. This article mandates the state to provide free and compulsory education to all children between the ages of 6 to 14 years as a fundamental right. The amendment aimed to address the widespread issue of illiteracy and ensure education for every child.
Key details:
- The 86th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2002 inserted Article 21-A in Part III of the Constitution.
- It also made corresponding changes in Article 45 and Article 51A:
- Article 45 directs the state to provide early childhood care and education for children below 6 years.
- Article 51A(k) imposed a duty on parents/guardians to provide opportunities for education to their children.
- This amendment was notified on December 12, 2002, and implemented later through the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act (RTE) in 2009.
Information Booster:
- Article 21-A ensures free and compulsory education as a fundamental right.
- The Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, operationalized this provision, mandating universal access to education.
- Article 21-A is unique as it strengthens the relationship between fundamental rights and directive principles of state policy.
- The 86th Amendment also made education a joint responsibility of the central and state governments.
- India's literacy rate has significantly improved since the enactment of these policies.