Delhi Minister Advocates for Structural Education Reforms Beyond Politics
Delhi Minister Ashish Sood made a strong statement on Monday. He urged governance in the education sector to move beyond political interests. Sood emphasized the need for strict policy-driven structural reforms. He spoke at a scholarship distribution ceremony for state university students. The event took place at Thyagaraj Stadium in New Delhi.
Focus on Long-Term Academic Health
Minister Sood clearly stated his priorities. The Delhi government is focusing on the long-term health of the academic system. Short-term considerations are taking a back seat. He explained the Delhi Higher and Technical Education Support Scheme. This initiative reflects the government's firm resolve. It aims to support students from marginalized backgrounds.
Sood addressed a critical issue directly. Financial constraints must not become a barrier to higher education. He outlined the guiding principle of the government under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. This approach aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision. The principle is 'Antyodaya'. It focuses on extending governance benefits to the person at the last mile.
Welfare as Constitutional Responsibility
The minister presented a clear perspective on welfare schemes. These should be seen as the constitutional responsibility of the state. Their aim is empowerment and accountability. They are not charity. Sood criticized previous education policies in the city. He said they prioritized publicity over actual outcomes.
This focus had negative consequences. It resulted in high dropout rates. It also led to resource shortages in higher education institutions. The current government is taking a different path. It is focused on addressing structural issues directly. The goal is to solve problems, not conceal them.
Major Infrastructure Project Gains Momentum
Minister Sood provided an update on a key infrastructure project. Work on the Narela Education City has gained significant momentum. The government has increased the budget substantially. It has risen from Rs 500 crore to Rs 1,300 crore.
The proposed education hub will spread over 160 acres. It will include several important facilities. Shared university campuses will be part of the complex. The plan also features auditoriums and libraries. Digital facilities and ICT laboratories are included in the design.
Minister Attends National School Band Competition
Earlier on Monday, Sood attended another important event. He visited the National School Band Competition (North Zone). This event took place at Chhatrasal Stadium. The Directorate of Education organized it on the occasion of National Youth Day.
The minister recalled the teachings of Swami Vivekananda. He stated that youth power is central to nation-building. Sood highlighted the value of participation in such competitions. He said it plays an important role in shaping young minds.
Key benefits include:- Development of discipline
- Enhancement of teamwork skills
- Fostering of collective responsibility
Sood used a powerful analogy. He said band performances symbolize coordination and unity. Even a minor lapse by one member can affect the entire group. Such training instills life-long values in participants.
These values include focus, self-control, and cooperation.
