The correct option is (a).
Explanation
The Right to Education is a Fundamental Right enshrined in Article 21A of the Indian Constitution, introduced by the 86th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2002. It is legally operationalized through the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: Article 21A mandates that the State shall provide free and compulsory education to all children of the age of six to fourteen years. This provision elevates elementary education for this specific age group to the status of a Fundamental Right.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The RTE Act does not exclude equity; rather, it seeks to promote it. The Act establishes minimum norms and standards (Schedule to the Act) regarding infrastructure, teacher-pupil ratios, and learning environments to ensure that all schools meet a baseline of quality, thereby aiming for equity in schooling facilities.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: Educational activists and reports consistently highlight that complete equality in schooling facilities has not been achieved in India. Significant disparities persist between urban and rural schools, as well as between public and private institutions, regarding infrastructure, teacher quality, and resources.
Key Takeaway:
Article 21A guarantees free and compulsory education for children aged 6–14 years as a Fundamental Right, but the RTE Act’s goal of equitable quality in schooling facilities faces implementation challenges and has not yet resulted in complete equality.