National Education Policy 2020 for Higher Education

Abstract The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 marks a transformative shift in India's higher education landscape. Aimed at addressing longstanding challenges such as rigid curricula, low employability, limited research output, and unequal access, NEP 2020 proposes a flexible, multidisciplinary, and inclusive framework to revamp the higher education system. Key features include a 5+3+3+4 structure, multiple entry and exit points in undergraduate education, interdisciplinary learning, emphasis on vocational training, promotion of research through a proposed National Research Foundation, and the integration of technology through the National Educational Technology Forum. The policy also envisions internationalization, equitable access, teacher development, and a robust regulatory framework under the Higher Education Commission of India (HECI). While the policy is ambitious and forward-looking, its success hinges on coordinated implementation, infrastructure development, and stakeholder collaboration. If effectively executed, NEP 2020 has the potential to make India a global hub for knowledge, innovation, and research. Keywords National Education Policy 2020, Higher Education, Interdisciplinary Learning, Multidisciplinary Curriculum, Research and Innovation, Vocational Training, Digital Education, Equity and Inclusion, Policy Reform, Employability, NEP 2020 Implementation, Teacher Development, Academic Flexibility.