NEP
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is India’s new framework to transform education, focusing on holistic, multidisciplinary learning, equity, and aligning with 21st-century needs, replacing the old 10+2 system with a 5+3+3+4 structure and promoting mother tongue instruction, critical thinking, and vocational skills to create a vibrant knowledge society.
Key Features of NEP 2020
- New Academic Structure (5+3+3+4):
Replaces 10+2 with stages: Foundational (3-8 yrs), Preparatory (8-11 yrs), Middle (11-14 yrs), & Secondary (14-18 yrs).
- Early Childhood Care & Education (ECCE):
Focus on quality ECCE for ages 3-6.
Home language/mother tongue/regional language as the medium of instruction until at least Grade 5, preferably till Grade 8.
- Holistic & Multidisciplinary Learning:
Moves from rote learning to critical thinking, creativity, and integration of arts, sciences, and vocational subjects.
- Skill & Vocational Training:
Integrated from early grades to make students “future-ready”.
Strong focus on access for all, including through initiatives like Gender Inclusion Funds and tools for children with disabilities (PRASHAST).
Emphasis on multidisciplinary studies, flexible models, research, and allowing foreign universities.
Aims for a light, tight regulatory framework with a focus on accountability and outcomes.
Core Pillars & Goals
- Access, Equity, Quality, Affordability, Accountability.
- Achieve 100% Gross Enrollment Ratio in school education by 2030.
- Transform India into a global knowledge hub.
Implementation & Impact
- A comprehensive, consultative process led to its formulation.
- Initiatives like NIPUN Bharat (foundational literacy/numeracy) are part of its execution.
- Aims to develop each individual’s creative potential.
