LESSON TO BE LEARNED FROM DR AMBEDKAR

Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar (popularly known as Babasaheb) used education as a tool to rise above the ordinary and become one of the great leaders of modern India, an effective fighter against the discrimination present in a caste-ridden society, and one of the chief architects of the Indian Constitution. 

Education is the key to success

Ambedkar was a bright student and did not let anything come in the way of his determination to be educated.

In a society that shamefully denied Dalits or 'untouchables' an education, he became the first Dalit to finish college.

He won a Rs 25 to Mumbai University and a state scholarship that enabled him to travel abroad for a post-graduate degree.

He studied at the London School of Economics and at Columbia University in the US, emerging with a PhD in Economics.

He served as defence secretary in the state of Baroda.

He was India’s first Law minister and chairman of the Constitution Drafting Committee.

Don’t be daunted

The stranglehold of the pernicious Hindu caste system was even stronger then than now.

The young Ambedkar was not allowed to sit in the same classroom or drink water from the same well, as his ‘higher born’ peers.

He did not allow this discrimination to come in the way of his determination to get an education and become a leading figure in the history of this country.

In 1990, he was posthumously awarded the country’s highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna.

Give back to society

Ambedkar used his education to spearhead the cause of equality, fraternity and liberty.

He believed that society will progress only when women are empowered, thus upholding women’s right to higher education and employment.

He wrote several books and columns highlighting the fundamental human rights of all people.

To close the gap of inequality inflicted on Dalits for centuries, he canvassed for reservation in education and employment for Dalits and won. 

Human rights are more talked about than practised in India.

Dr Ambedkar, himself a victim of the denial of rights, made sure that fundamental rights were enshrined in our Constitution, benefiting generations to come. 

"Remembering Babasaheb Ambedkar: A Champion of Social Justice and Equality"

1.  Framing of the Indian Constitution: Dr Ambedkar played a pivotal role in drafting the Indian Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land. The Constitution provides a framework for democratic governance, fundamental rights, and social justice. Dr Ambedkar's vision and insights helped shape the Constitution, which continues to guide India's democratic institutions.

2.  Fight against caste discrimination: Dr Ambedkar was a tireless campaigner against the caste system and untouchability, which oppressed the Dalits and other marginalized communities for centuries. He worked towards the social and economic empowerment of Dalits and fought for their rights. Dr Ambedkar's efforts paved the way for the gradual dismantling of the caste system and the recognition of the rights of Dalits and other marginalized groups.

3.  Advocacy for education: Dr Ambedkar believed that education was the key to empowerment, and he worked towards creating opportunities for the education of marginalized communities. He founded educational institutions like the People's Education Society and campaigned for including education as a fundamental right in the Indian Constitution. His efforts have led to increased access to education for millions of Indians.

4.  Champion of women's rights: Dr Ambedkar was a strong advocate for women's rights and worked towards ensuring their political and social empowerment. He was instrumental in the inclusion of provisions for gender equality and women's rights in the Indian Constitution.

5.  Vision for a modern India: Dr Ambedkar envisioned a modern, democratic India that was free from the shackles of social discrimination and oppression. He advocated for the creation of a society that was based on equality and social justice. His vision has influenced generations of Indians, and his work continues to inspire social and political movements in the country.

Overall, Dr Ambedkar's life and work have had a profound impact on India, and his contributions continue to shape the country's political, social, and economic landscape

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