The government is constantly facing demands from many states to pick up bulk of the multi-billion tab for implementing the landmark Right to Education Act, that includes other key challenges such as teacher shortage and infrastructure lacunae. It seems that most of the state governments want the centre to increase its proposed share from 55% to somewhere in between 75% and 90%. Bihar and Arunachal Pradesh want the centre to provide 100% funds.
Although, the above demands and limitations exist, all the states want the centre to move forward in providing free and compulsory education to all children between the ages of 6 and 14 years, supporting the unique initiative, that is indeed a long overdue. The new law has come into force on April 1. Some states like the most populous state of Uttar Pradesh are seeking 90% funding while some want the centre's share to be increased to at least 75%. Reservations have also been expressed by Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat about the huge financial burden the path-breaking legislation will entail for them.
