As India prepares for the Union Budget 2025, the education sector is poised for significant developments. With a focus on AI integration, innovation, teacher training, financial accessibility, and skill development, stakeholders anticipate reforms that align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
1. AI Integration in Education
- The India Artificial Intelligence (AI) Mission, backed by a ₹10,371.92 crore investment, aims to strengthen the country’s AI ecosystem.
- Experts recommend a 5-10% budget allocation for AI in education, including high-speed internet, digital tools, and AI labs in schools and colleges.
- Educator training in AI pedagogy is also a key priority to ensure effective implementation.
2. Investing in Innovation and Teacher Training
- Education experts stress the need for modernizing schools to bridge gaps between technology, 21st-century skills, and workforce needs.
- Investments in teacher training and leadership development are crucial to equipping educators for transformation.
- The focus should be on creating exemplary school models that set the standard for future education.
3. GST Exemption and Affordable Education
- Calls for a 100% GST exemption on education expenses for Below Poverty Line (BPL) and Low-Income Group (LIG) students to improve accessibility.
- High GST rates on higher education and online courses (18%) are seen as a barrier to enrollment.
- Interest-free student loans and reduced tax rates could help boost the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER), which India aims to increase to 50% by 2035.
4. Boosting Startups and Skill Development
- The Union Budget 2024 introduced several skill development initiatives, such as:
- Upgrading 1,000 ITIs under a hub-and-spoke model.
- Aligning courses with industry skill requirements.
- Providing training to 20 lakh students over five years.
- Further support for ed-tech startups is needed, including financial subsidies, grants, and incubation assistance for startups focusing on AI in education.
5. Addressing Digital Gaps in Rural Education
- The Bharatnet Project is expanding broadband access to rural schools, but further investment is needed to bridge the urban-rural digital divide.
- Reduced GST on education services would make digital learning more accessible to middle-class families.
- Vocational training platforms must be prioritized to address India’s skill gap and improve employability.
Conclusion
The Union Budget 2025 presents a critical opportunity to shape the future of education in India. By prioritizing AI, teacher training, financial accessibility, digital infrastructure, and skill development, the government can lay a strong foundation for inclusive and future-ready learning.
