Apropos the editorial “Boosting human capital” (March 2), the 24 per cent increase in the budgetary allocation for education (exceeding that for the much favoured NREGA) is a welcome step. But, given the daunting tasks ahead in this field, will this amount be adequate? A recent study found that the increase in the number of enrolments is not translating into commensurate transfer of learning and knowledge. So, a better part of the Budget will be needed to merely consolidate the existing infrastructure (classrooms, library and playgrounds) and faculty. Spending more on building schools without adequate facilities will only add to the number of semi-literates.
A provision of Rs 500 crore for the National Skill Development Council is to be weighed against the fact that only 2 per cent of our workforce is vocationally trained. The skill gap is alarming.
The spread of free or subsidised education benefits the poor and creates an opportunity for a better life. Both the government and the private enterprises should spend more on education than they do now.
Y G Chouksey, Pune
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