Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has asserted that his party advocates for a more equitable distribution of resources, aiming for 'inclusive growth', in contrast to the BJP’s emphasis on 'aggressive economic expansion'.
In a conversation with IIT Madras students, Gandhi emphasised the importance of quality education, which he argued cannot be achieved through privatisation and financial incentives. Instead, he called for increased government expenditure on education and the strengthening of public institutions.
“I believe it is one of the foremost responsibilities of any government to guarantee quality education to its people. This cannot be achieved through privatisation and financial incentives,” Gandhi wrote in a post on X, sharing a video from his interaction with the students.
Gandhi continued, highlighting his vision for redefining success in the education sector.
“Our conversation centered on empowering students to explore paths beyond traditional careers, encouraging them to embrace innovation and pursue their passions. By prioritising fairness, fostering research, nurturing creativity, and driving production, we can position India as a true global leader,” he wrote on his WhatsApp channel.
In response to questions from students on the differences between the Congress and the BJP, Gandhi stated that Congress and the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) believe in a fair distribution of resources and inclusive growth.
In contrast, he explained, the BJP tends to take an aggressive approach to economic growth, following a “trickle-down” model.
On social harmony, Gandhi noted, "We feel that the more harmonious society is, the less people are fighting, the better it is for the country."
He added that the Congress's approach to international relations aligns similarly with the BJP’s, though there are some differences in how both parties relate to other nations.
Turning to higher education, Gandhi expressed concern over the country’s education system, which he described as restrictive and limiting.
“I don’t think our education system allows the imagination of our children to thrive,” he stated.
He criticised the narrow focus of the system, which often measures success only in terms of becoming an engineer, doctor, or joining the armed forces or civil services.
While discussing his Bharat Jodo Yatra, Gandhi reflected on his interactions with thousands of children across the country, many of whom aspired to conventional careers.
“It can’t be that there are only five things to do in this country,” he said, urging for a more diverse approach to career options.
On the subject of international relations, Gandhi spoke about India's role in balancing the growing tension between China and the United States.
“India is in a space where it can get quite a lot more than its power would give it,” he observed, adding that India’s future success would depend on navigating these geopolitical challenges wisely.
Gandhi also advocated for more emphasis on physical production and innovation within the education system.
“Real innovation comes from that space,” he said, stressing that without actual production, research and development would remain ineffective.
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