The Illusion of Free Education: A Jugglery of Words

The concept of free education is often presented as a noble ideal, but it is, in reality, a clever play on words. In a nation like India, where the idea of acquiring something for nothing resonates deeply with the masses, the notion of free education has been exploited by political leaders to garner support. However, the reality is far more nuanced. Education, like any other service, comes with a cost. Whether through tuition fees or taxes, someone must bear the financial burden. The illusion of free education shifts the responsibility from the individual to the state, often leading to increased taxation and an unfair distribution of resources. This article delves into the myth of free education, tracing its roots to pre-Partition era mentality and highlighting its implications on private educational institutions and the overall education system. It argues for a balanced approach, where education is funded through a combination of tuition fees and state support, ensuring accessibility without jeopardizing quality or fairness.