Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan urged states and union territories to collaborate closely in advancing India’s education system during his address at the inaugural session of the Department of School Education and Literacy’s review meeting. Joined by Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary and other officials, Pradhan emphasized the critical role of education in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a developed India. He highlighted the transformative impact of the National Education Policy (NEP) in fostering a knowledge-driven nation and promoting inclusive and quality education.

Pradhan underscored NEP 2020’s emphasis on education in Indian languages and stressed the importance of ensuring accessibility, equity, affordability, and accountability across the educational landscape. Addressing the evolving demands of the 21st-century global environment, he called for a balanced and forward-looking educational approach that nurtures critical thinking and technological readiness among students.

The minister called for a unified effort between states and the central government to strengthen educational capacities and replicate successful models nationwide. He also emphasized the role of educators in enhancing the vibrancy of the education sector through continuous professional development and competency-based education initiatives.

Minister Jayant Chaudhary praised NEP 2020 as a progressive policy framework and highlighted the need to increase Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) to 100%, particularly among economically and socially disadvantaged groups. Secretary Sanjay Kumar outlined the meeting’s objectives, including reviewing NEP 2020’s implementation and aligning flagship schemes with policy goals to set a strategic course for the next five years. Key topics of discussion included infrastructure development, ICT integration, and the adoption of best practices across states and union territories.