The allocation for education in the Union Budget 2025-26 reflects a notable increase compared to previous years, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure and accessibility. Here’s a comparative overview of the budget allocations:
Current Allocation
- Total Allocation: ₹1.28 lakh crore for the education sector in 2025-26, up from ₹1.14 lakh crore in 2024-25.
- Higher Education: ₹50,067 crore allocated to higher education.
- School Education: ₹78,572 crore allocated to the Department of School Education and Literacy.
Comparison with Previous Years
- 2024-25: The education sector received ₹1.14 lakh crore, which was an increase from previous years but lower than the current budget.
- 2023-24: The allocation was approximately ₹1.12 lakh crore, indicating a steady increase year-on-year.
- 2022-23: The budget for education was around ₹1.04 lakh crore, marking a significant rise in subsequent years.
Specific Program Allocations
- Samagra Shiksha Scheme: Increased funding compared to previous allocations, reflecting a focus on comprehensive school education.
- PM POSHAN Scheme: Received higher funding this year compared to last year’s allocation of ₹10,000 crore.
- Medical Seats Expansion: An additional 10,000 medical seats are being added as part of the budget, addressing the demand for healthcare professionals.
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Impact on the Field of Education
The increased allocation is expected to have several positive effects:
- Enhanced Infrastructure: More funds will likely lead to improved facilities in schools and higher education institutions.
- Increased Accessibility: With more financial resources, initiatives aimed at making education more accessible to underprivileged communities can be expanded.
- Focus on Innovation: New programs like Atal Tinkering Labs will foster creativity and innovation among students.
Conclusion
Overall, the Union Budget 2025-26 demonstrates a clear commitment to advancing education in India through increased funding and targeted initiatives. This upward trend in budget allocation not only aims to improve educational outcomes but also seeks to address pressing challenges such as healthcare workforce shortages and technological advancements in learning environments.