Which amongst the following "Article" provides the provision for early childhood care and education to children below the age of 6 years?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) Article 45
Explanation:
Article 45 of the Indian Constitution, as amended, directs the State to provide early childhood care and education (ECCE) for all children until they complete the age of six years. This is a Directive Principle of State Policy aimed at ensuring a strong foundation for development.
Information Booster:
● ECCE Focus: It covers nutrition, health, and pre-primary education for children in their most formative years.
● 86th Amendment: This 2002 amendment changed the scope of Article 45 to focus on children under 6, while moving older children to Article 21A.
● Directive Principle: While not legally enforceable in court like Fundamental Rights, it serves as a guideline for government policy.
● Integrated Child Development: Programs like ICDS and Anganwadis are the practical implementation of the goals set in Article 45.
● Social Welfare: The article reflects the state's responsibility to protect the welfare and developmental rights of young children.
Additional Points:
● Option (a): Anti-discrimination – Article 15 prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
● Option (b): Right to Education – Article 21A makes free and compulsory education a fundamental right for children aged 6 to 14 years.
● Option (d): Equality before law – Article 14 ensures that all persons are equal before the law and have equal protection of the laws.

So the correct answer is (c)