Implementation Challenges of NEP 2020: A Policy Review

Abstract

With a focus on inclusive, transdisciplinary, and holistic learning, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 offers a revolutionary agenda for India\'s educational system. Although it has a progressive vision, there are significant obstacles to implementation. Inadequate funding, inadequate teacher preparation, problems with government coordination, systemic gaps including outdated curricula, the digital divide and infrastructure deficiencies are some of the main challenges. Reforms like MERUs and the Academic Bank of Credits face regulatory obstacles and institutional opposition in higher education. Progress is further hampered by the lack of precise deadlines and oversight procedures. The paper makes the case that a planned, well-funded, and cooperative approach including all stakeholders is necessary for successful implementation.

Introduction

• NEP 2020 is India’s first major education policy overhaul since 1986.

• It aims to modernize the education system to meet 21st-century needs by promoting:

  • Critical thinking

  • Creativity

  • Multilingualism

  • Lifelong learning

• It introduces the 5+3+3+4 curricular structure, supports mother-tongue instruction, and emphasizes multidisciplinary learning in higher education.

2. Key Features of NEP 2020

A. Curricular and Pedagogical Reforms

• Replaces the 10+2 system with a developmentally appropriate 5+3+3+4 structure.

• Emphasizes play-based and experiential learning in early education.

• Promotes flexible and transdisciplinary curricula in higher education.

• Establishes institutions like MERUs and Academic Bank of Credits to foster academic mobility.

• Aims for 50% vocational training exposure by 2025.

B. Shift in Learning and Assessment

• Moves from rote learning to competency-based education.

• Introduces continuous assessment and reduces reliance on high-stakes exams.

• Reorganizes regulatory structures via bodies like the HECI and NTA.

• Emphasizes digital literacy, AI, and coding in schools.

3. Implementation Challenges

A. Federal Structure Complications

• Education is a concurrent subject; states have different capacities and political will.

• Results in uneven and fragmented implementation (e.g., Tamil Nadu’s rejection of the three-language policy).

• Lack of coordination may weaken national consistency.

B. Financial Constraints

• NEP aims for 6% of GDP spending on education, but actual spending is ~3.5–4%.

• No binding financial mechanism to ensure funding.

• State governments, often financially strained, shoulder most of the education cost.

• Funding shortfalls threaten key reforms like infrastructure upgrades and teacher recruitment.

C. Digital Divide

• Heavy reliance on digital tools (DIKSHA, SWAYAM), especially post-COVID-19.

• Rural, tribal, and economically disadvantaged communities lack devices and connectivity.

• Many teachers are untrained in digital pedagogy.

• Without intervention, EdTech may widen existing inequalities.

D. Equity and Inclusion Concerns

• NEP highlights inclusion of SCs, STs, girls, and persons with disabilities.

• Proposes Gender Inclusion Fund and targeted educational zones.

• Lacks enforceable affirmative action in private institutions.

• Risk of reforms benefiting the privileged without targeted support for marginalized groups.

E. Lack of Accountability and Monitoring

• No detailed implementation timelines, metrics, or review mechanisms.

• Proposed bodies like NETF and SSSA lack clarity in function and authority.

• Decentralized implementation adds complexity and dilutes accountability.

4. Vision vs Reality

• While NEP 2020 presents a progressive, ambitious vision, actual execution is hindered by:

  • Structural inequalities

  • Financial limitations

  • Lack of monitoring frameworks

  • Political and administrative fragmentation

• Success depends on long-term planning, intergovernmental cooperation, teacher training, and inclusive practices.

Conclusion

A comprehensive and forward-thinking framework for reimagining Indian education is provided by NEP 2020. Its focus on digital integration, transdisciplinary learning, and holistic development is in line with international best practices in education. But there are several logistical and structural obstacles in the way of moving from policy to reality. Strong political will, consistent financial investment, and cooperation from stakeholders at all governmental levels are necessary to address these problems. NEP 2020 has the potential to revolutionize Indian education and equip students for a world that is changing quickly if it is executed well. A forward-thinking and progressive vision for India\'s educational system is laid out in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. But in order to make this vision a reality, sufficient resources, ongoing capacity-building initiatives, and a strong and persistent political commitment—especially from state governments—are needed. Additionally, it depends on the active participation of important parties, such as local communities, parents, and educators. Clear roadmaps, reasonable deadlines, and open monitoring systems are also necessary for successful implementation. NEP 2020 runs the risk of only being a policy on paper rather than bringing about a real change in practice if these important issues are not resolved.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 P. Mangamma. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.