Basic Literacy to Fiscal Capability: Strategic Imperatives for Integrating Financial Education into the Indian School Pedagogy

The integration of financial education into school curricula is a critical step toward fostering fiscal capability among the youth in India. This paper examines the strategic imperatives for embedding financial literacy as a core component of the Indian education system. Drawing on theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence, the study highlights the importance of financial education in promoting economic empowerment, reducing financial vulnerabilities, and enhancing decision-making skills. It outlines strategic approaches such as curriculum design, teacher training, and public-private partnerships, while addressing challenges like resource constraints and cultural barriers. Case studies from Gujarat and the ICSE syllabus demonstrate successful interventions. The paper concludes with recommendations for policymakers and educators to prioritize financial education as a foundational element of pedagogy.