Which movement or idea is associated with the Wardha Scheme of Basic Education proposed in 1937?

The correct answer is Nai Talim or Basic Education.

Key Points

• The Wardha Scheme of Basic Education, also known as Nai Talim, was proposed in 1937 by Mahatma Gandhi to promote education based on Indian culture and self-reliance.
• The scheme emphasized learning through productive manual work, such as spinning, weaving, and agriculture, to connect education with the practical needs of life.
• The medium of instruction was to be the mother tongue, making education accessible to the masses and reducing dependency on foreign languages like English.
• Nai Talim sought to eliminate the divide between manual labor and intellectual work, fostering dignity of labor and self-sufficiency.
• The idea was formally adopted at the Wardha Conference (1937), chaired by Mahatma Gandhi, and subsequently served as a framework for basic education in India.

Additional Information

• Meaning of Nai Talim: Nai Talim translates to "New Education" and is based on the principle of learning by doing, integrating academic knowledge with physical labor and practical skills.
• Role of Mahatma Gandhi: Gandhi advocated for an education system that aligned with Indian traditions, values, and the rural lifestyle, focusing on self-reliance and moral development.
• Key Features: The Wardha Scheme recommended free and compulsory education for children aged 7-14, with a curriculum centered on craft-based learning and character-building.
• Impact on Modern Education: The principles of Nai Talim influenced post-independence educational reforms, emphasizing vocational training and skill development in India's education policy.
• Criticism: While idealistic, the scheme faced challenges in implementation due to a lack of trained teachers, resources, and alignment with contemporary needs.