New Delhi, Oct 30 (PTI) Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday hit back at Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra for claiming the National Education Policy and PM SHRI schools were aimed
at "brainwashing" children, saying such statements were a "glaring display of ignorance and political opportunism".
The Congress MP from Wayanad has also alleged that the National Education Policy and the Pradhan Mantri Schools for Rising India (PM SHRI) scheme were structured in a manner that they teach only one ideology.
"A lot of factual inaccuracies have been inserted, historical data have been changed, and ideologically, it is all leaning one way," she has claimed.
Reacting to her allegations, Pradhan said, "The remarks made by Priyanka Gandhi on NEP and PM-SHRI initiative are a glaring display of ignorance and political opportunism."
"By making such irresponsible and misleading statements, she not only distorted facts but disrespected the collective wisdom of India's educators, academicians, and citizens who shaped these historic reforms," he said.
"For over 30 years, India waited for meaningful education reforms that could prepare its youth for the challenges of the 21st century. The NEP 2020, formulated under the guidance of K Kasturirangan, a scientist of global eminence, was the result of one of the most exhaustive and inclusive consultation processes ever undertaken," the Union minister said in an X post. Pradhan claimed the PM SHRI schools are the living embodiment of this vision.
"These exemplar schools represent the future of Indian education, featuring smart classrooms, Atal Tinkering and Innovation Labs, digital and experiential learning, libraries, eco-friendly campuses, vocational and skill hubs, and inclusive spaces for every child. They actively promote arts, culture, sports, and environmental stewardship, nurturing creativity, confidence, and character. In essence, PM SHRI schools blend modernity with moral strength, technology with tradition, and innovation with inclusion."
To oppose such visionary initiatives is not to critique policy; it is to stand against the very idea of an India that no longer needs approval from old political dynasties to educate its children, Pradhan claimed.
"Perhaps the discomfort stems from the fact that for decades, education was reduced to political rhetoric and neglect. Now that reforms are actually being implemented, it is convenient for some to feign outrage rather than acknowledge success," the minister added. PTI GJS GJS
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