Importance of Rural Education in India

In India, education in the rural segments is not only important to eradicate poverty and illiteracy, but also for a variety of other social, economic as well as cultural and political reasons.

After the independence of India in 1947, the policy makers realized that education is the most compelling means to initiate social alterations and improve community development in India. The role of education, both urban and rural, is huge in growth of the country’s economy. Although education in the urban areas have progressed rapidly during the last few decades, there are still some villages where education is not given sufficient priority. There are several reasons as to why rural education in India should be enforced efficiently, even in the most remote regions. Here are the reasons:

• Political Reasons — Due to the existence of the Panchayati Raj, various political parties and universal adult franchise in the political system of rural India, it is important for rural people to have adequate education so that they can better understand the programs and principles of the ruling bodies and elect worthy representatives. In the modern times, members of the rural public also participate actively in the elections of panchayat and political parties. To work as a competent member of any political association, it is necessary for any individual to possess certain qualifications.
• Economic Causes — In contemporary India, villages play an important role as segments of the national economy by producing agrarian, industrial and other goods, for national as well as international markets. But ultimately, it is the international price movement of different goods which regulates the required quantity of the commodities and their price. As such, it is quintessential to have an accurate understanding of the intricate structure of global economy and for that the rural masses need to be educated.
• Cultural Reasons — Today’s culture is advancing fast, with the introduction and availability of different kinds of modern gadgets, both in the urban and rural sectors of India. To handle and utilize the benefits of these advanced gadgets, education is a prerequisite. For example, a rural farmer who has access to modern agricultural tools like fertilizers, tractors, threshers and harvesters must be educated enough to understand the advantages of those tools. The progress of culture also necessitates liberty of individuals and social co-ordination. Education can affect the intellectual life of people and help them to contribute towards the advancement of the society.
• Social Reasons — The Indian Constitution provides for several rights and principles of citizens, of which the right to education is a major aspect. To understand the significance and functioning of these rights, modern education is a must.

Rural education is important not only for the enhancement of life quality of the rural community, but also for the overall progress and development of the country.