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Article 21A

Right to education

Every child aged 6 to 14 has a right to free and compulsory schooling.

Real life

A school asks for a donation before admitting a 10-year-old. Free education means that fee is not allowed.

What it means

  • Article 21A makes elementary education a fundamental right.
  • The Right to Education Act adds rules: no capitation fees, no screening tests, and no expulsion till Class 8.
  • Private schools must keep a share of seats for children from weaker sections.

Related rights

Rights of minorities in educationArticles 29-30