National Education Policy 2024: A Comprehensive Perspective

Abstract: The National Education Policy (NEP) 2024 represents a paradigm shift in India’s educational framework, building on the foundational reforms of NEP 2020 and aiming to establish a learner-centric, inclusive, and future-ready education system. This policy envisions an integrated approach to learning that spans from early childhood education to higher education and lifelong learning. It emphasizes universal access, equity, quality, and global competitiveness, while remaining deeply rooted in India's cultural and intellectual heritage. NEP 2024 introduces a restructured school system through the 5+3+3+4 model and proposes significant reforms in curriculum, pedagogy, assessment, and teacher training. Holistic development, experiential learning, multilingual education, competency-based assessments, and multidisciplinary pathways are cornerstones of the new approach. The policy recognizes the transformative role of educators and prioritizes continuous professional development and mentoring. Technology integration, digital literacy, and flexible learning modalities are central to achieving equitable access, particularly in underserved and remote regions. The policy also fosters internationalization, research excellence, and employability through vocational education and modular degrees supported by the Academic Bank of Credit. Governance reforms include the establishment of regulatory bodies like the Higher Education Commission of India (HECI), the State School Standards Authority (SSSA), and the National School Standards Authority (NSSA) to ensure accountability and quality assurance. While the policy faces challenges in implementation—such as infrastructural constraints, financial needs, and institutional resistance—it also presents a unique opportunity to harness India’s demographic dividend by empowering youth with relevant skills, values, and global perspectives. If implemented effectively, NEP 2024 has the potential to transform India into a vibrant knowledge society and a global education leader.