The Indian education system suffers from many ills. One of the major issues is the focus on 'rote learning', which has been the staple of the Indian education system for many years. While many Indians have attained success despite this system, simply being able to recall information is not enough in today's world when that information is instantly available to anyone on a mobile phone. A survey of 200 Indian and foreign companies found that only 14% of Indian graduates were prepared for the workforce, largely because most graduates were unable to apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems. In this context, answer the following questions: (a) What are the consequences of 'rote learning' on the educational development of young students in the country? (b) Suggest measures that can be taken to address this issue.

Major ethical issues with rote learning and consequences

1. No promotion of rationality in the individual → does not

question surroundings. 2) Becomes a national liability rather than an asset due to unemployment (@ 7.8% in June 2022 CMIE data) 3) Does not uphold fundamental duty of having scientific temper. 4) Spirit of innovation is missing → not suitable for research. 5) Not compatible with fast changing technology due to lack of applied mind 6) Other implications - transforms demographic dividend of nation to demographic disaster & no human capital 7) Keeps the society obscurant due to lack of questions and spirit to find the truth. (Carl Jung said)

Measures to address the issue

1. National education policy has taken the first step of curriculum reform with objective criteria
2. Need for game based learning for interest & application of mind. (Eg) Kerala's akshara vriksham.
3. More inclusivity in education by having books in mother tongue also → better understanding (Eg) Mirror text books by Andhra Pradesh. (Telugu ↔ English)
4. Promote spirit of innovation & scientific temper — Atal Innovation Mission in right direction.
5. Ensure a system of internships for hands on and application based learning in line with spirit of

Gandhi's Nai Talim. 6) Ensure the linkage of industry with skilling - US Model of Industry-Academia partnership. 7) Moral overhauling of teachers via proper training in advanced pedagogy. 8) Involvement of parents in the process of learning for micro transparency and accountability.