Editorial

Cabinet Approves New Education Policy: Major Overhaul After 34 Years

New Delhi, Jan 1, : the Cabinet has approved the New Education Policy (NEP), ushering in a transformative shift in India’s education system after 34 years. The policy introduces a comprehensive framework aimed at restructuring the education system to make it more inclusive, flexible, and contemporary, while promoting cultural and linguistic diversity.

The NEP revamps school education by adopting a 5+3+3+4 structure, replacing the traditional 10+2 format. This new framework categorizes education into four distinct stages. The foundational stage will span five years, starting from nursery at age four, followed by junior kindergarten, senior kindergarten, and classes 1 and 2. The preparatory stage will cover three years, encompassing classes 3 to 5, followed by the middle stage of three years for classes 6 to 8. The secondary stage will consist of four years, covering classes 9 to 12.

A major highlight of the policy is the emphasis on teaching students up to class 5 in their mother tongue, local language, or national language. This approach aims to foster better understanding and a stronger cultural connection. While English and other subjects will still be taught, they will be introduced as specific subjects rather than the primary medium of instruction.

Examinations, a key component of the education system, are also set for a significant change. The traditional 10th board exams have been abolished, and semester-based evaluations will be introduced from class 9 onwards. The 12th board exams will remain but will adopt a reformed approach to assessment.

The NEP brings sweeping changes to higher education as well. College degrees will now follow a flexible three- or four-year structure. Students will receive a certificate after completing the first year, a diploma after the second, and a full degree after the third. Those opting for a four-year degree will have the advantage of pursuing a one-year master’s program and even qualifying directly for PhD programs, as the policy does away with the MPhil degree.

A key reform in higher education is the option for students to pause a course to pursue another and return to complete the first course later. This flexibility is aimed at fostering multidisciplinary learning. Additionally, the NEP sets an ambitious target of achieving a 50% gross enrollment ratio in higher education by 2035.

To support digital learning, the policy also introduces e-courses in regional languages and plans to develop virtual labs. A National Educational Scientific Forum (NETF) will be established to promote research and innovation. Further, all educational institutions, whether government, private, or deemed universities, will now follow uniform regulations, ensuring consistency and transparency.

The Education Minister has hailed the New Education Policy as a historic reform that aims to modernize the education system while remaining rooted in India’s cultural heritage. “With this policy, the government envisions a future-ready education system that empowers students with knowledge, skills, and the flexibility to pursue their interests and aspirations,” the Minister said.

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