Empowering the Future: Ensuring the Rights of PreSchool Children in India Through Legal Reforms

Abstract

Early Childhood Development (ECD) has become a critical policy imperative in India, particularly emphasising Early Childhood Care and
Education (ECCE) within the framework of rights, development, and economic returns outlined. While India recognises the significance of ECD in the National Education Policy (NEP 2020), the absence of enforceable laws establishing ECCE as a justiciable right of pre-school children in India necessitates a deeper exploration and urgent legal reform. This gap hinders access to quality care and education, impacting their well-being and future opportunities. 

This study employs a doctrinal and comparative approach to explore the legal and policy frameworks related to ECD and ECCE in India and internationally, providing a solid foundation for informed policy recommendations and advocacy efforts. It examines international
conventions and the Indian constitutional context and draws comparative perspectives to assess the legal frameworks governing pre-school children’s rights that could inform legal reforms in India. It underscores the significance of a comprehensive multisectoral approach involving policymakers, parents, civil society organisations, and the private sector for effective implementation. These findings hold practical implications for stakeholders, promoting and protecting pre-school children’s rights and building a more equitable and just society for all children.