New Delhi: In the wake of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Ministry of Education has issued directives to all States and Union Territory (UT) Governments, urging swift measures for the effective execution of the policy. The NEP 2020 brings forth a comprehensive framework with key provisions aimed at revolutionizing the education landscape.

Among the prominent features are the commitment to universal access to education from pre-primary to Grade 12, a focus on quality early childhood care, and the introduction of a new curricular and pedagogical structure labeled 5+3+3+4. The policy advocates for breaking down traditional boundaries between subjects and streams, emphasizing holistic development.

The NEP 2020 also outlines reforms in assessments, introducing Board Exams up to two occasions in a school year and creating the National Assessment Centre, PARAKH, for comprehensive evaluation. Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Groups (SEDGs) receive special attention to ensure equitable and inclusive education.

The policy addresses teacher recruitment, encourages vocational education, and establishes a Gender Inclusion fund and Special Education Zones. Notable initiatives include the Academic Bank of Credit, Multidisciplinary Education and Research Universities (MERUs), and the National Research Foundation (NRF). The NEP 2020 envisions “Light but Tight” regulation, introducing the Higher Education Commission of India (HECI) for overseeing the higher education sector.

Open and distance learning will be expanded to increase Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER), and internationalization of education is on the agenda. The NEP emphasizes professional education as an integral part of higher education and introduces a 4-year integrated Bachelor of Education program.

To facilitate the integration of technology in education, the policy establishes the National Educational Technology Forum (NETF). Striving for 100% youth and adult literacy, the NEP introduces mechanisms to curb the commercialization of higher education, ensuring institutions adhere to standards of audit and disclosure.

With education falling under the concurrent list, both the Centre and States bear equal responsibility for implementation. Addressing concerns raised by certain States, a series of workshops and consultation-cum-review meetings have taken place, fostering collaboration and innovation. Notable discussions on NEP implementation occurred during national-level conferences, including the National Education Ministers’ Conference, the National Conference of Chief Secretaries, and the 7th Governing Council Meeting of NITI Aayog. The commitment to achieving 6% of GDP for public investment in the education sector demonstrates a shared vision for the transformative potential of NEP 2020.