This scheme of textbook distribution is an acknowledgement by the government that in order to bring education to the masses it is not sufficient merely to build schools and to hire teachers, but that the government must also affirmatively help low-income children come to school.

The problem that many low-income families face is that even sending their children to school to avail themselves of the ostensibly free education that is on offer actually costs them considerable sums of money. First and foremost among the expenses parents must incur are those for textbooks.

This is why the textbook distribution initiative is such a good idea. It enables parents to actually avail themselves of the other advantages that have been opened up to them with respect to their children's schooling, and without measures such as textbook distribution, funds spent elsewhere can end up of use only to a limited number of families, and leave behind many of those who need the assistance the most.

The distribution drive is, however, a massive undertaking, and we hope that the administration is equal to the task. The efficacy of a government programme often lies in the efficiency of its implementation, and this one is no exception.

In addition, we would urge the government to follow up not only by ensuring the success of this scheme, but to also address the issues such as curriculum, teacher training, adequacy of facilities, etc. that require its close attention if the nation is to provide meaningful and effective access to a good education available to everyone.

Sound educational foundations are the key to our development as a nation. Distributing textbooks to those who need them and who otherwise might have difficulty attending school is a good start, but only as part of a sincere broader commitment.