National Education Day is celebrated in India on November 11th every year to commemorate the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the country's first education minister . This day honors his contributions to promoting education and laying the foundation for modern educational institutions in India.

*Maulana Abul Kalam Azad's Contributions*

Maulana Azad was a visionary educationist who played a crucial role in shaping India's education system. He served as the education minister from 1947 to 1958 and was instrumental in establishing institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), University Grants Commission (UGC), and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) ³. He advocated for free and compulsory primary education for all children under 14, laying the foundation for the Right to Education in India.

*Significance of National Education Day*

National Education Day recognizes the importance of education in empowering individuals and the nation as a whole. It aims to raise awareness about the importance of literacy, learning, and inclusivity in education .The day encourages governments to make education inclusive, affordable, and easily accessible to all.

*Theme of National Education Day 2024*

The theme for National Education Day 2024 is "Transforming India through Education" ². This theme aligns with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to make education more holistic, inclusive, and flexible.

*Celebrating National Education Day*

To celebrate National Education Day, educational institutions in India organize various events, such as essay-writing and elocution competitions, seminars, symposia, workshops, and rallies with banner cards and slogans on the importance of literacy and education. Individuals can also participate by promoting education and literacy in their communities and advocating for inclusive and equitable education for all.