The decline of the indian education system: a historical analysis of muslim and colonial rule
Abstract
The Indian education system has undergone significant transformations, particularly during Muslim and British colonial rule, which led to the decline of traditional education systems. Before these influences, education in India was decentralized and focused on religious, philosophical, and scientific teachings in institutions likeGurukuls and Buddhist monasteries. The arrival of Muslim rulers introduced Madrasas, which blended Islamic learning with Indian traditions but contributed to the decline of indigenous Hindu and Buddhist centers of learning. The most profound shift occurred under British colonial rule, especially after Macaulay's 1835 Minute on Education, which introduced English-based education that prioritized colonial administrative needs over traditional systems. This led to the marginalization of indigenous knowledge, vernacular languages, and a new social divide between English-educated Indians and the rest of society. Although the British introduced modern subjects like science and law, their education system undermined intellectual creativity and innovation. Post-independence, India has made efforts to reform its education system, aiming to reclaim its lost heritage and integrate modern knowledge, but challenges persist in balancing traditional education with global advancements. This study evaluates the long-term consequences of these transformations, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to revitalize India’s educational heritage while embracing modern education.
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