As India approaches the Union Budget 2026, Ms. Rima Singh, Head of DPS International, has called for a shift in focus towards improving learning outcomes and preparing students for the demands of the future. She believes that the upcoming budget must prioritise foundational literacy and skill development, which remain critical to the country’s educational reforms.
“As India moves into the next phase of education reform ahead of Budget 2026, the focus should shift to improving learning outcomes and preparing students for the future,” said Ms. Singh. She emphasised that despite the country’s strides in education, there remains a pressing need to address basic literacy and essential skills to prepare youth for the rapidly changing digital economy.
Singh outlined the key areas where the budget could make a meaningful impact, starting with the integration of AI-powered classrooms. “Targeted funding for AI-powered classrooms, strong professional development for teachers, blended learning models, and deeper public-private partnerships aligned with NEP 2020 are essential,” she noted. These elements, according to her, are fundamental for delivering fair, high-quality education while providing students with the critical skills needed for global competitiveness.
Ms. Singh further stated that such measures would help ensure that students not only thrive in a digital age but also become innovators and leaders. “These steps will help deliver fair, high-quality education, give students the critical skills they need for innovation and global competitiveness, and nurture a generation ready for Viksit Bharat,” she added, referring to India’s goal of becoming a developed nation.
In conclusion, Ms. Singh believes that a budget focused on these forward-looking investments will play a crucial role in shaping the education landscape, equipping students with the necessary tools to succeed in an ever-evolving world. She stressed that addressing the gap in foundational education and fostering skills development would ensure that India continues its march toward becoming a future-ready, knowledge-based economy.
