Kathmandu— Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), backed the long-standing demand for allocating six per cent of India's national budget to education during an event in Mumbai on Thursday. He emphasized that education is a necessity and should not be treated as a commercial activity. While supporting the increased funding, Bhagwat stressed that social participation and better teacher training are also crucial for improving educational standards.

Budget Allocation

Bhagwat stated that the demand for allocating six per cent of the national budget to education is appropriate and should be implemented. However, he noted that increasing the education budget alone would not suffice because no one has ever suggested that the government should run the entire education system. He emphasized that society must also take responsibility for improving educational infrastructure.

Social Participation

Referring to RSS-affiliated Vidya Bharati schools, Bhagwat highlighted that quality education is possible through social participation and commitment. About 23,000 good schools are running under the organization's efforts, which he attributed not solely to budget allocations but also to concern for the new generation and resulting efforts.

Public Awareness

Bhagwat said that creating public awareness about education would eventually compel governments to act. He argued that if this happens, a mood will be created among the people, compelling no government or politician to ignore the public's demand for increased educational funding.

Teacher Training

Bhagwat called for better teacher training and emphasized that reforms should begin with educators. He stated, 'We have to start with the teachers; train the teachers.' Bhagwat also urged students and educational institutions to take up projects aimed at improving schools by involving local communities.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.