NEP 2020: 6 Years On, What's Changed in Indian Education?

Six years after its ambitious launch, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 continues to reshape the landscape of Indian education. News Reporter Live takes a look at the key developments, challenges, and on-the-ground impact of this transformative policy as of March 2026.

The NEP 2020, with its focus on holistic development, flexibility, and multidisciplinary learning, set a target to overhaul the existing education system from primary schools to universities. A key aim was to reduce the emphasis on rote learning and encourage critical thinking and creativity among students. So, how far has India come in realizing this vision?

Curriculum Overhaul and Focus on Foundational Literacy

One of the most significant changes has been the push for foundational literacy and numeracy. The National Mission on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy, launched under the NEP 2020, aims to ensure that all children achieve proficiency in reading, writing, and arithmetic by Grade 3. Many states, including Madhya Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, have implemented revised curricula and teacher training programs aligned with this mission. NCERT has also developed new textbooks and learning materials to support this initiative. Further resources are available through CBSE Study Materials & Notes.

“We’ve seen a marked improvement in early learning outcomes in pilot districts,” says Dr. Meena Sharma, a senior education officer with the Ministry of Education. “However, scaling up these interventions across the country remains a challenge, especially in resource-constrained regions.”

Higher Education Reforms: Towards Multidisciplinary Learning

In higher education, the NEP 2020 envisioned a shift towards multidisciplinary institutions and flexible degree programs. Many universities, including the IITs and Delhi University, have introduced four-year undergraduate programs with multiple entry and exit options and academic credit banks. This allows students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. The Higher Education Funding Agency (HEFA) continues to provide financial support for infrastructure development and research initiatives in higher education institutions. Students can also explore various Scholarships & Financial Aid to support their studies.

However, reportersays, adapting to these changes has been a mixed bag. While some students appreciate the flexibility, others find it challenging to navigate the new system. “The new curriculum is vast and the implementation is still patchy. More clarity is needed,” says Rohan Verma, a third-year engineering student at IIT Bombay.

The CBSE Board Exam and Continuous Assessment

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has also implemented changes in line with NEP 2020. There's now a greater focus on competency-based questions in board exams, aiming to test students' understanding of concepts rather than their ability to memorize facts. Continuous and comprehensive evaluation (CCE) has also been strengthened in schools. The CBSE has introduced revised assessment guidelines and teacher training programs to support these changes. For more information, please visit our CBSE page.

Speaking to News Reporter Live, Anita Devi, a CBSE teacher from a school in Jaipur, said, “The shift towards competency-based assessment is a positive step, but it requires a significant change in teaching methodologies. Teachers need more training and resources to effectively implement these changes.”

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite the progress, challenges remain in fully implementing the NEP 2020. These include: addressing the shortage of qualified teachers, ensuring equitable access to quality education for all students, and bridging the digital divide. The government is committed to addressing these challenges through various initiatives, including the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan and the National Digital Education Mission (NDEM). As well, the government is encouraging the use of technology in education, with initiatives like DIKSHA providing digital learning resources for students and teachers across the country.