NEW DELHI: The government has presented a well-balanced budget with a focus on addressing the fundamental needs of education in India. The government has raised the bar, by introducing schemes that will help bridge the rural-urban gap, both in the economic and educational sector.

A budget of 38,572 crores in BE (Budget Estimate) is allocated for National Education Mission. 10% reservation in educational institutes and government services for the poor has been implemented, to ensure that there is no shortfall of available seats for any class, and uplift the backward classes.

Abhishek Dubey, Founder & CEO, Muskaan Dreams

“The government has also planned upon developing one lakh digital schools around the country in the next 5 years, I think digital villages will become a great move for this govt, it will enhance skills of rural youth also help them to get a better job. Most of the startups are working in Tech based solutions and it helps youth to get the job. It will help them to learn about digital technology or skills-based programme. India is amongst the most youthful nations in the world, and through policies focused on the youth of the nation, like Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, great economic development can take place. I am glad that the concept of employment is changing in India with job-seekers becoming job-creators. The interim budget is expected to offer a big revolution to the nation’s economy.”

Saumil Majmudar, CEO, EduSports

“The Interim Budget has identified Health as one of the Top 9 priority areas while Education remains an important focus area. The government should consider allocating budgets from Health and Education to improving School Sports and Physical Education as well as improving playgrounds in cities and towns. Sports participation has long-term health benefits which will reduce the future health bills of the country and schools have seen higher attendance, lower dropouts and higher child engagement in academic subjects after the introduction of a high-engagement sports curriculum. Investment in Sports in Schools is equivalent to investing in Preventive Health Schemes and Mid-day Meals for improving attendance and reducing drop-out rates.”

Jaivir Singh, Vice Chairman, PwC India foundation

“Whilst govt has done a great job of increasing access to hard infrastructure in sanitation, budget allocation for maintenance at the municipal and school level is crucial to ensure the changes that are needed in behaviours are sustained in the long run.”