Actual Article
Article 45: Provision for early childhood care and education to children below the age of six years
The State shall endeavor to provide early childhood care and education for all children until they complete the age of six years.
UPSC Notes for Article 45
Explanation:
- Directive Principle: Article 45 is part of the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs) under Part IV of the Indian Constitution. It directs the State to provide early childhood care and education to all children under six years of age.
- Objective: The primary aim is to ensure the holistic development of young children, laying a strong foundation for their future education and overall growth.
Key Points:
- Early Childhood Care: Involves health, nutrition, and emotional support for young children to ensure their overall development.
- Education: Focuses on providing preschool education to prepare children for primary schooling, fostering cognitive and social skills.
- Government Initiatives: Several schemes and programs have been launched by the government to fulfill this directive, such as the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme.
Important Cases and Commissions Related to Article 45
Cases:
- Mohini Jain vs. State of Karnataka (1992): The Supreme Court held that the right to education is a fundamental right, which indirectly supports the objectives of Article 45.
- Unni Krishnan vs. State of Andhra Pradesh (1993): Reinforced the right to education, emphasizing the need for early childhood care and education as a precursor to formal schooling.
Commissions:
- National Policy on Education (1986): Emphasized the importance of early childhood care and education, advocating for a strong preschool system.
- Kothari Commission (1964-66): Recommended measures for the development of early childhood education, aligning with the goals of Article 45.
Important Reports Related to Article 45
- National Education Policy (2020): Highlights the importance of early childhood care and education, proposing the universalization of pre-primary education and the establishment of foundational literacy and numeracy.
- Report of the Committee on Early Childhood Care and Education (2013): Outlined strategies for providing quality early childhood care and education to all children below six years, aligning with Article 45.
Previous Year Prelims Questions Related to Article 45
- Prelims 2018: Which of the following provisions of the Indian Constitution deals with early childhood care and education for children below the age of six years?
- A. Article 21A
- B. Article 39(f)
- C. Article 45
- D. Article 51A
- Prelims 2020: Consider the following statements:
- Article 45 provides for early childhood care and education to children below the age of six years.
- Directive Principles of State Policy are enforceable by the courts.
- Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- A. 1 only
- B. 2 only
- C. Both 1 and 2
- D. Neither 1 nor 2
Previous Year Mains Questions Related to Article 45
- Mains 2016: “The Directive Principles of State Policy are fundamental in the governance of the country and it shall be the duty of the State to apply these principles in making laws.” Discuss this statement with special reference to the provision for early childhood care and education under Article 45.
- Mains 2018: Critically analyze the significance of early childhood care and education as envisaged under Article 45 of the Indian Constitution.
Additional Insights:
- Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS): Launched in 1975, ICDS is one of the world’s largest programs providing food, preschool education, and primary healthcare to children under six years, as well as their mothers.
- Challenges: Despite various initiatives, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, insufficient trained personnel, and limited access in rural areas hinder the effective implementation of Article 45.
- Future Directions: Strengthening the implementation of Article 45 requires increased investment, robust policy frameworks, and community participation to ensure all children receive the benefits of early childhood care and education.
By understanding Article 45, UPSC aspirants can gain insights into the constitutional directive aimed at providing early childhood care and education. This knowledge is essential for both preliminary and main examinations, offering a comprehensive understanding of the role of Directive Principles in shaping state policies for the welfare and development of young children.