Education system should facilitate, not be a barrier to learning : Mohan Bhagwat

Speaking at the inauguration of the new Lokseva E-School building in Pashan, Pune, Bhagwat said, “The education system should be a facilitator, not a barrier, to learning. It should not merely regulate but actively support the process of education.” Highlighting the need for a supportive educational framework, the Sarsanghchalak called for rules that nurture and contribute to the learning process rather than hinder it.

Bhagwat said that education should not be confined to rigid structures but should be community-oriented and supported by society.

“Literacy and education are distinct. Education is not just about earning a living but about becoming a complete human being. The process of building individuals is the essence of education. Therefore, education is not a business but a mission and service,” he said.

He also praised the multidisciplinary approach formalised by the National Education Policy (NEP), noting that many schools in India have already adopted such practices. Bhagwat also reflected on India’s cultural and educational evolution, urging educators to preserve the country’s roots while embracing progress. “As we change and adapt, we must protect our identity. By balancing punya sanatan (sacred traditions) with nitya nutan (modern innovations), we can achieve true development,” he said.

The event saw the participation of former IAS officer Avinash Dharmadhikari, classical vocalist Mahesh Kale, Bharatiya Jain Sanghatana founder Shantilal Mutha, Cosmos Bank chairman Milind Kale, entrepreneur Puneet Balan, Lokseva Foundation director advocate Vaidik Paigude, and former director Nivedita Madkikar.

Dharmadhikari expressed his concerns about the colonial mindset persisting in Indian textbooks even decades after independence. He said, “Our textbooks continue to teach a distorted and unscientific history of India and its culture. The ideological and practical influence of forces opposing India and Indian values still impacts the younger generation through these books. Instead of relying solely on the government, we must promote thoughts grounded in clarity and wisdom.” He also underscored the need to harmonise India’s eternal culture with modern sciences to guide future generations.

Shantilal Mutha noted that for the first time since independence, India has implemented an exemplary educational policy capable of shaping a new India.

“However, the effective implementation of this policy is crucial, as the onslaught of Western culture challenges value-based education and family systems,” he said.

The programme began with a disciplined parade by students from the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Military School.