EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION IN INDIAN CONTEXT: A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW

Abstract

In India, Early Childhood Care and Education, or ECCE, is essential to the overall development of children ages 0 to 8. It emphasizes developing the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical abilities that serve as the cornerstone of lifelong learning. This paper thoroughly covers the necessity, significance, difficulties, and educational interventions pertaining to early childhood education in the Indian context. It draws attention to the constitutional clauses found in Articles 21(A) and 45, which emphasize the state's obligation to provide all children with equal access to education. The study also looks at how important it is for parents, educators, and the community to support successful ECCE practices. Major issues like poor infrastructure, a shortage of trained teachers, inconsistent funding, low parental involvement, and the lack of a standardized curriculum still exist despite policy efforts. The study examines comparable problems in nations like Nigeria, South Africa, and the United Kingdom by utilizing both national and international viewpoints. To raise the standard of ECCE, it ends by suggesting changes to the law, better training for teachers, and increased parental involvement. In addition to strengthening foundational learning, ensuring a comprehensive, inclusive, and well-coordinated early education framework will also make a substantial contribution to social equity and human resource development in India.