Mumbai: Representatives from various sections of society came together at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, at a session titled “Jan Jan Ka Vishwas” to deliberate on how government policies and programmes have contributed to inclusive development during the last nine years. The session was held at the conference “National Conclave: 9 Saal - Seva, Sushasan, Gareeb Kalyan”, organised by Prasar Bharati. The panelists included boxer Nikhat Zareen, actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui, UNICEF Representative to India and nurse Cynthia McCaffrey and Padma Shri awardee Shanti Teresa Lakra; environmentalist Anil Prakash Joshi and Divya Jain, co-founder Seekho. The session was moderated by journalist Richa Anirudh.

National Education Policy helping holistic education

UNICEF representative in India McCaffrey said that the government of India conducted a National Achievements Survey, which looked at the system to understand what children are learning and what Indian students really know. “Based on that, the government created policies in order to reach individual students and make the education system stronger. What this leads to is that India has made an investment in foundational learning, ensuring also that we keep children at schools in a safe environment. Swachh Bharat Mission, Ayushman Bharat have all come together to be important parts of a child’s life and bring in convergence in learning. Schemes come together to make sure you have sanitation and nutrition. The government has laid focus on foundational learning with an innovative approach, with skilling through multiple pathways, enabling children to grow up healthy and helping them acquire 21st century skills.” She added that the emphasis given in the National Education Policy on foundational learning, vocational education and entrepreneurial learning has empowered children, enabling them to get a holistic education.