I sometimes wonder what would happen if all children in India had access to the same quality primary and secondary education and healthcare? Yeah, that means no expensive coaching and equal educational opportunities for everyone. Will it be a better society?
It will increase competition among middle-class kids whose parents work very hard to ensure their children get the best (expensive) education, often becoming a central purpose of their lives. It may also take away some of the inherited advantages of the middle class (although many may not consciously see them that way), reducing competition for their descendants.
In the short term, the idea of equality may seem disastrous to them, but in the long run, it might be the best thing for society. If more people are educated, public discourse would improve. People may become more vocal about human and animal suffering, dignity, and rights. Population growth may stabilize naturally (as seen in some parts of India). Public schools and healthcare would likely improve. More innovation could happen, leading to more jobs. The shortage of skilled and motivated teachers, doctors, and engineers might no longer be a serious problem.
If we are concerned that people might not want to work, there are thousands of things people will still love to sweat for, e.g., expensive cars, lavish homes, gadgets, status, recognition, and ambition itself.
So why isn't there a stronger demand for this? The middle class is concerned about their children's future, while many low-income people are focused on ensuring they have enough food for the month.
All of us owe an apology to the countless lals (children) of India who were denied their right to good education and healthcare. If you are among the lucky ones who can clearly see inequality and suffering, you may eventually realize that your ability to reach this point was shaped by a society where many other children were denied the same opportunities. I still don’t know what the right emotion to feel after realizing this is.