Education is the base for the progress of a nation and its citizens. Educational
history of a nations showcases its social, political and cultural progressive
journey. It gives me immense pleasure to introduce the book ‘History of
Education’. In this book, it has been tried to examine the complex evolution
of Indian education from antiquity to the present. All the respected team of
chapter authors, which consists of academicians and research scholars with
knowledge/expertise of Indian education system, have diligently studied and
analysed appropriate sources to provide a comprehensive viewpoint on the
required topics.
Chapters in the book are arranged in chronological order to show how
educational systems have changed over time. Beginning in antiquity,
educational methods in the time of Vedic and Buddhist time period was
delved and then medieval time period was explored to look at the
development of education. Then the impact of colonial control Indian
education has been included in the book. The contemporary educational
system that the British implemented has had a profound impact on the nation's
educational landscape. A critical period in India's history of education, the
post-independence period, saw bold educational changes with the goals of
promoting social justice and equitable progress. Difficulties encountered
during the policy changes and initiatives that shaped modern Indian education
has been covered in the form of chapters describing various education policies
and their recommendations.
This anthology is an invitation to critically interact with the history of
education in India, it is not just a list of events and facts. As editor, I have
made an effort to keep a fair perspective towards inclusion of quality based,
useful and objective oriented text in the book.
I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the contributors whose
intellectual input has enhanced this volume. This book is an invaluable
resource for students, educators, scholars, and everyone interested in
comprehending the development of education in India, thanks to their
commitment to rigorous research and perceptive analysis.
Finally, I want to thank my loving parents, husband and children for their
unfailing understanding and support, which allowed me to fully dedicate
myself to this endeavour.
I believe that as readers go through this book, they will have a deeper
understanding of the significance of education in forming the identity and
ambitions of our country. I hope that this book will spark fresh discussions
and lines of inquiry in this constantly developing profession.