India is a democratic country and for democracy to work well, education is absolutely necessary. Imagine a nation where leaders are uneducated, voted to power by people who also cannot read or write, it would be a disaster.

Some people argue that education has no real value in life, but this is far from the truth.

In today’s world, knowledge has advanced so much that no one can survive without it. Trade, industry, agriculture, technology and even daily jobs have become so complex that proper education is required for almost every field.

An educated person will never feel completely helpless in the face of difficulties. His or her mind, trained through study and problem-solving, will always find a way forward. As it is rightly said, “Education is the ability to meet life’s situations.” Education prepares us for this and also gives us the courage and confidence to face struggles with dignity.

An illiterate person often remains dependent on others. In the past, uneducated farmers in India were cheated out of their land and rights by landlords and moneylenders, as they could not read the false papers they were made to sign. Similarly, women were suppressed and mistreated mainly because they were denied education. Without education, they had little chance of earning and were forced to remain dependent. It is rightly said: If you give a man a fish, you feed him for a day; but if you teach him how to fish, you feed him for life. This is the difference between charity and self-reliance. Education gives us self-reliance.

A Sanskrit proverb says that true education is that which liberates a person. Education frees the human mind from ignorance, superstitions and prejudices. It protects a person from harmful influences and vices. It shapes character, builds personality and provides skills for a good livelihood. Most importantly, it helps us adjust to the challenges of modern life. Above all, it trains us to become responsible citizens who contribute to society and the nation.