RELEVANCE OF VIVEKANANDA'S EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY IN ADDRESSING CONTEMPORARY EDUCATIONAL CHALLENGES IN INDIA

The present study explores the relevance of the educational philosophy of Swami Vivekananda in addressing the contemporary challenges of the Indian education system. In recent years, Indian education has faced multiple issues such as rote learning, lack of value-based education, unemployment, mental stress among students, and increasing social inequalities. Despite policy initiatives like the National Education Policy 2020, there remains a gap between educational ideals and their effective implementation. This study adopts a qualitative, descriptive, and analytical research approach based on secondary sources, including books, research articles, and policy documents. It critically examines the key principles of Vivekananda’s educational philosophy, particularly his concept of “man-making education,” which emphasizes character building, self-reliance, moral values, and holistic development of individuals. The findings of the study reveal that Vivekananda’s ideas are highly relevant in the present context and offer practical solutions to many of the existing challenges in Indian education. His emphasis on experiential learning, value-based education, and inner strength aligns closely with the objectives of modern educational reforms. The study also highlights the need for integrating these philosophical principles into curriculum design, teaching methodologies, and teacher education programs. In conclusion, the study suggests that the effective application of Vivekananda’s educational philosophy can contribute significantly to the development of a balanced, inclusive, and value-oriented education system in India, thereby fostering responsible and empowered citizens.