Here are the reactions to the Budget 2019:
“We fervently hope that the National Education Policy, which is in the works, will be finalised soon so that the essential improvements in school and college level education are also taken up on an urgent basis. This would address the serious problem of lack of employability skills, which is a big concern of employers and would definitely help the growth prospects of the Indian economy. It is heartening to note the increased focus to push research by setting up the National Research Foundation.” Manek Daruvala, Founder and Director, T.I.M.E.
“The commitment to bringing in the new education policy and make sweeping changes in how education is imparted, with the focus on learning outcomes, will play a big role in bettering the education levels. The focus on research and innovation and the setting up of a National Research Foundation with access to research funds from all Government schemes will help fund and promote research in the country. Bringing in legislation for finally setting up the Higher Education Commission of India is a step in the right direction. With all the sweeping changes in the education system, I will not be surprised to see the success of the proposed Study in India programme.” Dr Yajulu Medury, Director, Mahindra Ecole Centrale, Hyderabad
“The Union Budget has recognised the importance of technology in the country's growth by announcing training of 10 million youth in industry-relevant skills such as AI, IoT, and Big Data. While the move will enable India address the skill-shortage, it will also allow the current talent pool to be future-ready. The allocation of funds to build world-class higher education institutes is a big step forward in strengthening the roots of India's education system. The decision to establish a National Research Foundation will reinvigorate research that is critical to building indigenous products and solutions. We are confident that with a renewed focus on quality education and technology being the pivot, the Indian education sector will benefit in the years to come.” Vikas Singh, Managing Director, Pearson India
“This Union Budget has given due importance to skilling and education which is a welcome move in today's skill-driven industry. The expansion of Skill India to include AI, IoT and other futuristic technologies hits the nail on the head and the establishment of National Research Foundation is a major boost towards building India's technical competence. Additional allocation of Budget to Bharatnet will also have a deep impact on skilling rural India as it has the potential to open up online learning to students and professionals from remote villages. All in all, I am happy that Education has received 10 per cent higher allocation in this budget which will help schools and higher education institutions in the country invest in catching up with industry requirements.” Vineet Chaturvedi, Co-Founder, Edureka
“The government’s plan to re-energise the education sector is a positive step to boost the morale of young learners. On the back of this, emerging technologies such as AI and ML will help in spreading education through EdTech platform across the country. Further, the proposition to launch ‘Study in India’ that will position India as a prime destination for higher education amongst students aboard, will open doors and present opportunities for educators and e-learning sector as a whole.” Vamsi Krishna, CEO & Co-Founder, Vedantu
“Infusion of ₹400 crore in education reforms is really a revolutionary move, though I think more needs to be done for the education system in India. I believe government, corporate and private sectors should start working closely together so that, very soon we don’t need the expensive and exclusive institutions whereas the government will be able to provide world-class education, and world-class facilities at Indian education institutions.” Chet Jainn,Founder and CEO, Crowdera