National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: A Transformative Vision for Indian Education
In July 2020, the Union Cabinet approved the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, marking a monumental shift in India’s educational landscape. Replacing the National Policy on Education (1986), the NEP 2020 envisions the universalisation of education from preschool to the secondary level, aiming to position India as a global knowledge superpower and re-establish its legacy as a Vishwa Guru in the realm of learning and innovation.
This visionary policy is rooted in the principles of equity, inclusivity, and holistic development, catering to the dynamic needs of 21st-century learners and society. Key highlights of the NEP 2020 include:
Key Reforms Under NEP 2020
Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE):
Mandatory schooling is now expanded to cover the age group of 3 to 18 years. The traditional 10+2 structure is replaced with a new 5+3+3+4 curricular framework corresponding to developmental stages:
- Foundational Stage (ages 3–8)
- Preparatory Stage (8–11)
- Middle Stage (11–14)
- Secondary Stage (14–18)
Mother Tongue as the Medium of Instruction:
Wherever possible, education will be imparted in the mother tongue/regional language till at least Grade V and preferably till Grade VIII, in alignment with the three-language formula, while ensuring no imposition of any language.
Holistic Multidisciplinary Education:
Rigid separations between academic streams (Science, Commerce, and Humanities) will be eliminated. Students will have flexibility to choose subjects across disciplines.
Higher Education Reforms:
A single apex body—the Higher Education Commission of India (HECI)—will regulate higher education (excluding medical and legal education), promoting uniform standards across public and private institutions.
- Graded autonomy will be granted to colleges in a phased manner.
- The current affiliation system will be phased out over 15 years.
Undergraduate Education Revamped:
The Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP) returns with multiple exit options:
- Certificate after 1 year
- Diploma after 2 years
- Bachelor’s degree after 3 years
- Bachelor’s with Research after 4 years
An Academic Bank of Credit (ABC) will digitally store credits earned across institutions.
Reducing Dropout Rates:
The new framework enables multiple entry and exit points, reducing dropouts and supporting lifelong learning. A special focus is placed on inclusive and equitable education for all.
NEP at Salwan Public School, Mayur Vihar
In alignment with the NEP 2020 vision, Salwan Public School, Mayur Vihar, has proactively redesigned its curriculum and pedagogy at the pre-primary and primary levels, focusing on nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills through an innovative, learner-centric approach. Educators are integrating experiential learning and life skills to support cognitive, emotional, and social development in students. This paradigm shift aims to provide an enriching and engaging learning environment tailored to the needs of today’s learners, preparing them for a dynamic global future. Also, the school has introduced skill subjects to further enhance students’ practical skills and equip them with tools for success in a rapidly changing world.
शिक्षा केवल जानकारी प्राप्त करना नहीं है, यह जीवन को संवारने की कला है।
(Education is not merely about acquiring information—it is the art of shaping life itself.)
For a comprehensive understanding of the NEP 2020, click the link below:
https://www.education.gov.in/sites/upload_files/mhrd/files/NEP_Final_English_0.pdf