During the state-level Teachers’ Felicitation Ceremony held at the RCVP Noronha State Administration Academy in Bhopal on Friday, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav highlighted the historical significance of India’s traditional educational institutions and their resilience against invaders. He pointed out that renowned centers of learning, such as Takshila and Nalanda, were targeted and destroyed by various invaders throughout history. He also criticized British colonial efforts to undermine the traditional Indian education system, specifically referencing Lord Macaulay’s attempts to introduce Western education in India.
Dr. Yadav commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi for implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to reintegrate the rich history of India’s traditional educational framework into the contemporary curriculum. He emphasized that the NEP seeks to foster value-oriented education and moral values among students.
In his address, Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangubhai Patel underscored the crucial role teachers play in shaping an ideal society. He remarked on the transformative power of education, stating that while parents give birth to children, teachers are responsible for nurturing them into ideal citizens by imparting knowledge and virtues. The Governor encouraged educators to not only focus on academic teaching but also on preparing students to contribute to India’s development as a leading nation.
The ceremony also included the recognition of several teachers for their contributions to education. Additionally, the CM announced a financial initiative, transferring ₹324 crore directly into the accounts of 54 lakh students to provide funds for school uniforms.
Historically, Lord Macaulay was instrumental in establishing the English language as the medium of instruction during British rule in India, significantly altering the educational landscape. In 1835, English was declared the official language for government and court proceedings, further entrenching British educational practices in India.
