About Ritu Solanki
Ritu Solanki is an educator, author, and Ph.D. scholar known for turning complex ideas into clear, impactful learning. She has authored two popular reference books for B.Ed. students—Learning and Teaching and Contemporary India and Education. Blending academic depth with creativity, Ritu brings a fresh perspective to education, making it not just informative, but truly inspiring.
LiFT: Tell us about your book, the journey of writing it, and its content.
Ritu Solanki: Contemporary India and Education is a book I wrote primarily for B.Ed. students to help them understand the complex relationship between India’s education system and its socio-political environment. It explores how education in India has evolved, how it’s shaped by constitutional values, and how it responds to the changing needs of society.
The journey of writing this book was deeply connected to my passion for education and my experiences as both a learner and an educator. I noticed a gap in resources that clearly connected theoretical concepts with real-life policy implementation, especially from the perspective of aspiring teachers. I wanted to create a resource that was not just informative but also engaging and easy to understand.
The book is structured around key themes such as:
• The constitutional foundations of education in India
• Education policies and major commissions like the Kothari Commission
• Contemporary issues like privatization, globalization, and inclusive education
• The role of education in social justice, empowerment, and national integration
• Detailed discussions on the Right to Education Act and NEP 2020
Through this book, my aim was to empower B.Ed. students to not only learn the system but also question, contribute, and improve it when they step into classrooms as educators.
LiFT: Why did you choose this title?
Ritu Solanki: I chose this title because it captures exactly what the book is about—understanding education in the context of today’s India. Our education system doesn’t exist in isolation; it’s shaped by politics, society, economy, and culture.
The word “Contemporary” highlights that the focus is on current issues—like NEP 2020, digital learning, inequality, and the role of teachers in modern classrooms. It’s a title that invites students to think critically, not just memorize.
In short, the title reflects the core idea: education as it is, and as it should be, in today’s India.
LiFT: When did you realize that you wanted to be a writer/poet, and what was your inspiration behind it?
Ritu Solanki: During my M.Ed days, I constantly struggled to find content that was both comprehensive and enjoyable to learn from. That experience stayed with me. I always wished for a book that could truly support students—not just academically, but also in making learning feel meaningful and engaging. Later, while pursuing my Ph.D., I realized that the content I was developing wasn’t just sufficient—it was powerful. That’s when it clicked: my work could actually help others. That thought became the spark behind my journey as a writer.
LiFT: Where do you see yourself ten years down the line in the world of literature?
Ritu Solanki: Ten years from now, I envision myself as a well-established voice in the field of educational and reflective literature—someone who continues to inspire, question, and contribute meaningfully to the discourse around learning, identity, and social change. I hope to author a broader range of books, blending research with personal insight, and perhaps even exploring new genres like creative non-fiction or memoir.
Beyond writing, I see myself mentoring aspiring authors, especially those from underrepresented communities, and using literature as a bridge to promote equity and understanding in education. I want my work to not just inform but to ignite—encouraging readers to think deeply, act consciously, and believe in the transformative power of knowledge.
LiFT: How important do you think marketing and the quality of a book are in promoting it and increasing its readership?
Ritu Solanki: Both are absolutely crucial. A well-written book is the foundation—it builds trust and leaves a lasting impact. But without smart marketing, even the best content can go unnoticed. Quality brings readers in and keeps them coming back, while marketing ensures your voice reaches the right audience. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s the perfect balance of both that turns a book into a movement.
LiFT: What message do you want to convey to people through your writing?
Ritu Solanki: Through my writing, I want to convey that education is not just about books and exams—it’s about awareness, empowerment, and change. I write to simplify complex ideas, to give voice to the unheard, and to make every learner feel seen and supported. My message is simple: learning should be meaningful, inclusive, and transformative. If my words can inspire someone to think differently or believe in themselves a little more, then I know I’m on the right path.
LiFT: What do you do apart from writing?
Ritu Solanki: Apart from writing, I’m currently pursuing my Ph.D. on The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Personalized Learning for Undergraduate Students, which keeps me immersed in the evolving world of education and technology. I also find balance through yoga and mandala art, which help me stay centered and creative. Teaching is a big part of my journey, and I enjoy reading novels in my free time to relax and stay inspired.
LiFT: What activities do you resort to when you face writer’s block?
Ritu Solanki: When I face writer’s block, I turn to yoga, meditation, and mandala art to reset my mind. I also listen to podcasts and motivational videos that help me stay inspired and focused. A walk or engaging with my students often sparks new ideas, allowing me to return to writing refreshed and motivated.
LiFT: What if your story were to be adapted into a movie? Who would you want to work as the director or actors in it?
Ritu Solanki: If my story were ever adapted into a movie, I’d love to see a director like Meghna Gulzar or Gauri Shinde bring it to life—they have a beautiful way of handling emotional depth and strong female narratives. For the lead, someone like Vidya Balan or Taapsee Pannu would be perfect—intense, thoughtful, and powerful, just like the spirit of the story. I’d want the film to not just entertain but spark meaningful conversations, just like the books aim to do.
LiFT: Are you working on your next book? If so, could you tell us something about it?
Ritu Solanki: Yes, I’m working on my next book, and it’s close to my heart. It’s designed especially for B.Ed. students—simplified, engaging, and rooted in real classroom experiences. I want it to be a practical guide that not only helps with exams but also inspires future educators to teach with purpose and confidence. The aim is to make learning joyful and meaningful, just like I always wished it to be during my own academic journey.
LiFT: What are your suggestions for budding writers and poets to help them improve their writing skills?
Ritu Solanki: Make learning easy, attractive, and inspiring—that’s the key. Write regularly, even if it’s just a few lines a day. Read widely and let your imagination roam free. Draw inspiration from your surroundings, your emotions, and real-life stories. Don’t wait for perfection—just start expressing.
As Maya Angelou beautifully said, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” So let your story flow, because your words matter more than you know.
Click here to order Ritu Solanki’s Book – Contemporary India And Education
