Sustainable development is not merely about adopting green technologies; it requires a profound shift in mindsets and behaviors
Dr. Navya Gubbi Sateeshchandra
The recently unveiled 2025 Indian budget has generated considerable discussion, with its emphasis on infrastructure development and technological advancements. While these areas are undoubtedly crucial for economic growth, a closer examination reveals a potential oversight: the apparent lack of prioritization for higher education, particularly in the realm of sustainable development, social sciences, and humanities. This neglect raises concerns about the long-term implications for India’s ability to address complex societal challenges and achieve truly holistic development. The budget speech highlighted significant allocations for physical infrastructure, digital connectivity, and manufacturing initiatives. These investments signal the government’s commitment to boosting economic activity and creating employment opportunities. However, the foundation of a thriving and equitable society rests not only on material progress but also on intellectual capital and a deep understanding of the social fabric.
A robust higher education system, especially one that nurtures critical thinking in areas like sustainable development and the humanities, is essential for building a future-ready India. Sustainable development is not merely about adopting green technologies; it requires a profound shift in mindsets and behaviors. This necessitates a strong foundation in interdisciplinary fields that integrate environmental science, social sciences, and economics. Universities play a crucial role in fostering research and innovation in these areas, training future policymakers, and educating citizens about the importance of environmental stewardship. However, the budget seems to have allocated minimal resources to strengthen these crucial departments within higher education institutions.
While some funding may be directed towards renewable energy projects, a holistic approach to sustainability requires investment in the human capital that can drive systemic change. The social sciences and humanities, often perceived as less “practical” than STEM fields, are vital for understanding the complexities of human societies. They equip individuals with critical thinking skills, ethical reasoning, and a nuanced understanding of history, culture, and social dynamics. These skills are indispensable for addressing challenges like poverty, inequality, social exclusion, and conflict. Moreover, a strong foundation in the humanities is essential for preserving India’s rich cultural heritage and promoting social cohesion. Yet, the budget appears to have largely overlooked these disciplines, potentially hindering the development of a well-rounded and socially responsible citizenry. A closer look at the budget reveals a disproportionate emphasis on technical education and vocational training. While these skills are undoubtedly important for employability, they should not come at the expense of a broader education that cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the ability to analyse information, understand diverse perspectives, and engage in constructive dialogue is more crucial than ever. These are precisely the skills that are honed through the study of social sciences and humanities. Furthermore, neglecting higher education in these areas can have detrimental consequences for India’s democratic fabric. A vibrant democracy requires informed and engaged citizens who can critically evaluate information and participate in public discourse. The social sciences and humanities play a vital role in fostering civic engagement and promoting a culture of intellectual curiosity.
By underfunding these disciplines, the government risks undermining the very foundations of its democratic system. The budget’s focus on economic growth without a corresponding emphasis on social development and intellectual capital raises questions about the government’s long-term vision for India. While economic prosperity is undoubtedly important, it should not be pursued at the expense of social progress and environmental sustainability. A truly developed nation is one that invests in its people, nurtures their intellectual capabilities, and empowers them to address the challenges of the 21st century.
The 2025 budget presents a missed opportunity to strengthen higher education in areas that are crucial for India’s long-term well-being. By prioritizing technical skills over critical thinking and neglecting the social sciences and humanities, the government risks creating a skills gap that could hinder India’s ability to address complex societal challenges and achieve truly sustainable development. It is imperative that the government recognizes the importance of a holistic education that encompasses both technical expertise and a deep understanding of the human condition. A future-ready India requires not just skilled workers, but also informed citizens, critical thinkers, and ethical leaders. Investing in higher education, particularly in the social sciences and humanities, is not just an expenditure; it is an investment in India’s future.
The lack of significant allocation for research grants in social sciences and humanities is another area of concern. Research in these fields is crucial for understanding the complex social, cultural, and economic dynamics that shape Indian society. It provides valuable insights for policymakers and helps inform evidence-based decision-making. By neglecting research in these areas, the government is limiting its ability to address pressing social issues effectively. Moreover, the budget’s apparent disregard for the importance of interdisciplinary studies is a significant drawback. Many of the challenges facing India today, such as climate change, poverty, and inequality, require interdisciplinary solutions that draw on insights from multiple fields. Higher education institutions need to be encouraged to develop interdisciplinary programs that integrate the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
This requires not only financial resources but also a shift in mindset within the academic community. The 2025 Indian budget, while focusing on crucial areas like infrastructure and technology, appears to have overlooked the critical role of higher education, particularly in sustainable development, social sciences, and humanities, in building a truly prosperous and equitable India. This neglect could have far-reaching consequences for the nation’s ability to address complex societal challenges and achieve its long-term development goals. It is essential that the government recognizes the importance of a holistic education that nurtures critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and a deep understanding of the human condition. Investing in higher education in these crucial areas is not just a matter of academic interest; it is a matter of national importance.
(Dr. Navya is a professor at berlin school of business & innovation, Berlin, Germany. Views expressed are personal)
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