The Indian education system is undergoing a major transformation driven by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This policy aims to align education with the country’s economic and developmental goals, preparing India for Viksit Bharat@2047. The reforms focus on improving access, quality, equity, and skill development across all levels of education. The government’s efforts over the past decade have laid a strong foundation for these changes.
Expanding Access to Higher Education
Since 2014, India has established 42 new central higher education institutions. Twelve universities have been designated as Institutions of Eminence to compete globally. The Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) in higher education is targeted to reach 50% by 2035. Female enrolment has grown , with a 24.5% increase between 2014-15 and 2021-22. The Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) system enables students to accumulate credits across institutions, offering flexibility and ease in course completion. Over 2.75 crore students have benefited from this digital initiative.
Promoting Equitable and Inclusive Education
The Vidya Lakshmi Scheme (2024) supports students from socially and economically disadvantaged backgrounds by providing collateral-free education loans. To date, loans worth ₹2,358 crores have been disbursed to over 8,000 students. Digital platforms like SWAYAM and SWAYAM Plus offer free access to thousands of courses, focusing on skill development and regional language instruction. The National Digital Library provides over eight crore educational resources, encouraging inclusive and lifelong learning. The PM-USHA scheme allocates ₹100 crore each to 35 universities for autonomy and digital infrastructure.
Encouraging Multidisciplinary and Flexible Learning
NEP 2020 emphasises a learner-centric and multidisciplinary approach. The National Credit Framework (NCrF) allows credit accumulation from academic, vocational, and experiential learning. Approximately 170 institutions have adopted this framework enabling seamless horizontal and vertical mobility across courses. The National Higher Education Qualification Framework and Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programmes further support skill-based education. These reforms prepare students for evolving industry needs and global standards.
Boosting Research, Innovation, and Global Integration
India’s research output has surged, with PhD enrolments doubling by 2022-23 and female participation rising by 135.6%. The country ranked third globally in scientific publications in 2024. Patent filings reached over 92,000, with higher education institutions contributing 25%. The government promotes industry-academia partnerships, innovation hubs, and start-up ecosystems. Foreign universities have begun establishing campuses in India, enhancing educational quality and reducing costs for students. This global integration supports India’s ambition to become a USD 35 trillion economy by 2047.
Engaging Students Through Innovative Programmes
Pariksha Pe Charcha is a flagship initiative where the Prime Minister interacts with students to build exam resilience and critical thinking. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan actively monitors NEP implementation by engaging with institutions and stakeholders. These efforts aim to nurture a skilled, entrepreneurial, and globally competitive youth, vital for Viksit Bharat 2047.
Questions for UPSC:
- Taking example of the National Education Policy 2020, discuss how education reforms can drive economic development in emerging economies.
- Examine the role of digital platforms like SWAYAM in promoting equitable access to education and skill development in India.
- Analyse India’s approach to integrating research and innovation in higher education. How does this impact global competitiveness?
- Discuss in the light of India’s higher education reforms, the challenges and benefits of allowing foreign universities to establish campuses in India.
