THE FUTURE OF INDIAN ACADEMIC LIBRARIES: DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AND NEP 2020

The paper explore the transformative impact of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 on library practices within the Indian academic system. The NEP 2020 represents a significant reform aimed at reshaping educational frameworks and consequently influencing library operations, resources, and services critical to supporting academic and research endeavors. I argue that the policy will enhance library practices by fostering digital literacy, improving resource accessibility, and implementing innovative management strategies. Through a thorough analysis of historical library practices in India, I examine how NEP 2020 promotes technological advancements and digital platforms, supplemented by case studies from Indian institutions that exemplify these changes. My findings reveal that NEP 2020 not only facilitates the evolution of library services but also enriches the overall academic ecosystem. The paper concludes by reflecting on the policy's pivotal role in advancing library practices and suggesting avenues for future research and exploration.