Book Review on Right to Education and Schooling

This book review critically examines Right to Education and Schooling (2017), edited by Deepa Idnani and published by Rawat Publications. The edited volume is a compilation of fourteen scholarly papers presented at a conference organized by Shyama Prasad Mukherjee College, University of Delhi. The book analyzes the historical evolution, policy framework, and practical implementation of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, which made elementary education a fundamental right in India. Divided into two sections, the first traces the historical development of free and compulsory education from the colonial period to post-independence policy initiatives, while the second presents empirical studies from different regions of India highlighting contemporary challenges in schooling. The chapters collectively address critical issues such as access and equity, privatization, teacher quality and eligibility tests, curriculum debates, inclusion of economically weaker sections, classroom discipline, school management, silent exclusion, minority education, and the impact of globalization. The review concludes that although the RTE Act provides a strong legal framework, significant gaps remain in its implementation, particularly regarding quality, equity, and retention. The book offers valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, teachers, and education stakeholders concerned with strengthening elementary education in India.