Which of the following Articles says "The State shall endeavour to provide early childhood care and education for all children until they complete the age of six years"?

The correct answer is Article 45.

Key Points

• Article 45 of the Indian Constitution falls under the Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV).
• It mandates that "The State shall endeavour to provide early childhood care and education for all children until they complete the age of six years."
• This provision reflects the government's commitment to ensuring the holistic development of children during their formative years.
• Originally, Article 45 focused on providing free and compulsory education for children up to the age of 14 years but was amended by the 86th Constitutional Amendment Act of 2002.
• The amendment shifted the focus of Article 45 to early childhood care and education, while free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14 years became part of Article 21A.

Additional Information

• Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP):
  • Part IV of the Indian Constitution contains DPSPs, which are guidelines for the State to follow while framing laws and policies.
  • Though not legally enforceable, DPSPs aim to establish social and economic democracy.
  • They include provisions on education, health, social welfare, and economic equality.
• 86th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2002:
  • Inserted Article 21A, which provides for free and compulsory education to children aged 6-14 years as a fundamental right.
  • Amended Article 45 to focus on early childhood care and education.
  • Added Clause (k) to Article 51A, making it a fundamental duty of parents/guardians to provide opportunities for education to their children between the ages of 6 and 14 years.
• Right to Education Act (RTE), 2009:
  • Implements Article 21A by ensuring free and compulsory education for children between 6-14 years.
  • Mandates that no child shall be held back, expelled, or required to pass a board examination until the completion of elementary education.
  • Provides for the establishment of neighborhood schools and the inclusion of disadvantaged groups.
• Importance of Early Childhood Care and Education:
  • Early childhood is a critical period for cognitive, emotional, and physical development.
  • Access to quality early education lays the foundation for lifelong learning and success.
  • Ensuring care and education up to age six helps reduce inequalities and improve overall societal development.