PREFACE

This book explores the changing landscape of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) in India. Since the beginning, ECCE has faced many challenges, even as educators, NGOs, and private organizations have made strong efforts to support its growth. In recent years, ECCE has re-ceived greater attention globally, with a focus on providing inclusive, ho-listic, and age-appropriate care and education during the early years of a child’s life.

However, building a strong and inclusive ECCE system in India is still a work in progress. Despite, being the world’s largest democracy, India faces the complex task of ensuring equal access to quality early educa-tion for all children, regardless of their background. This book provides a clear overview of the progress made so far, especially highlighting the im-portant role of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. It looks closely at the remaining challenges and also points to new opportunities that can help shape the future of ECCE in the country.

Informative and timely, this book is a useful resource for educators, policymakers, researchers, and anyone committed to supporting the de-velopment and well-being of young children in India.