Rahul Gandhi Advocates for Increased Government Investment in Education

New Delhi, Jan 4 (NationPress) Senior Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has called attention to the necessity for enhanced government investment in education. During an engagement with students from IIT Madras in New Delhi, he remarked that quality education relies on substantial government funding and strong public institutions, rather than depending on privatization and financial incentives.

"The government must ensure quality education for its citizens, and this can only be accomplished by fortifying public institutions," he added.

Pointing out the achievements of government-run institutions, the Congress leader stated, "The finest institutions in the nation, such as your institution (IIT Madras), are government-operated. I advocate for significantly increased funding for education from governments."

Expressing his apprehensions regarding India's education framework, Rahul Gandhi stated, "I have substantial concerns about the structure of the country's education system. It stifles the creativity of our children. It is a very restrictive, top-down approach… exceedingly narrow."

He shared experiences from his Bharat Jodo Yatra, where he engaged with thousands of children nationwide about their dreams and aspirations.

"Most of the students I conversed with aspire to be lawyers, doctors, engineers, or soldiers. It cannot be that there are merely five career options available in this nation, yet that is what our system promotes," he observed.

He also criticized the prevailing system for defining success too narrowly, focusing primarily on becoming an engineer, doctor, or civil servant, which applies to only a small fraction of the population.

"Our education system should enable children to chase their dreams and explore a variety of opportunities," he asserted.

The Congress leader further emphasized the necessity for greater investment in Research and Development (R&D), especially in the manufacturing sector.

"True innovation stems from R&D, and increased funding in this domain is crucial for the nation's advancement," he stated.

Rahul Gandhi contrasted his party's inclusive vision with the BJP's economic strategies, saying, "The Congress promotes fair distribution and inclusive growth. Conversely, the BJP adopts a more aggressive stance on growth and follows a 'trickle-down' model."

Discussing India's foreign relations, he highlighted the significance of maintaining a balance with global powers like China and the US.

"India must wisely manage and balance its relationships with these superpowers," he recommended.

In conclusion, Rahul Gandhi emphasized that a united society would result in reduced conflict and greater progress for the nation.