Five years since its launch on July 29, 2020, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has reshaped India’s education landscape. At the Akhil Bharatiya Shiksha Samagam (ABSS) 2025, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan hailed NEP as “the most crucial pathway to Viksit Bharat,” emphasizing its role in fostering a student-centric, inclusive, and innovative education system. Held at Bharat Mandapam, ABSS 2025 convened education leaders to review NEP’s progress and chart its future.
- Key Points:
- NEP 2020 marks five years of transformative education reforms.
- ABSS 2025 highlights achievements and future goals.
- Focus on holistic, inclusive, and future-ready education.
PM SHRI Schools: Setting New Standards
The PM SHRI (Prime Minister Schools for Rising India) scheme has emerged as a flagship initiative, with over 13,076 schools designated as model institutions aligned with NEP 2020. These schools emphasize quality education, 21st-century skills, and inclusive environments, nurturing students to become engaged citizens.
- Key Points:
- Over 13,076 PM SHRI Schools established nationwide.
- Focus on holistic development, sustainability, and skill education.
- Aligned with NEP’s vision of equitable and joyful learning.
Academic Bank of Credits: Empowering Flexibility
The Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) has revolutionized higher education by enabling flexible learning. Over 2,469 institutions are onboarded, issuing 32 crore ABC IDs and 2.36 crore APAAR IDs. Additionally, 153 universities now offer multiple entry-exit options, enhancing student mobility and choice.
- Key Points:
- 2,469 institutions integrated with ABC.
- Over 32 crore ABC IDs and 2.36 crore APAAR IDs issued.
- Multiple entry-exit options in 153 universities.
Key Achievements of NEP 2020
NEP 2020 has driven structural changes across school and higher education. Initiatives like NIPUN Bharat, PARAKH, and UDISE+ have strengthened foundational literacy, assessments, and data governance. Over 13,000 higher education institutions use the SAMARTH platform, while the National Credit Framework (NCrF) and biannual admissions promote flexibility. Emphasis on Indian Knowledge Systems and mother tongue-based education aligns with India’s cultural ethos.
- Key Points:
- NIPUN Bharat and PARAKH boost foundational skills and assessments.
- SAMARTH platform adopted by 13,000+ HEIs.
- Focus on Indian languages and cultural integration.
Akhil Bharatiya Shiksha Samagam 2025: A Platform for Progress
ABSS 2025, held on July 29, 2025, brought together education ministers, vice-chancellors, and EdTech innovators to discuss NEP’s impact. Thematic sessions covered vocational education, digital learning, and competency-based assessments. The summit underscored the need for teacher capacity building and inclusive curricula to achieve a 100% Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) by 2030.
- Key Points:
- ABSS 2025 focused on NEP implementation and future reforms.
- Discussions on digital learning, STEM, and vocational integration.
- Goal to achieve 100% GER by 2030.
Challenges and Future Outlook
While NEP 2020 has made significant strides, its full impact will unfold over the next decade as students educated under the policy complete their journeys. Challenges include ensuring equitable access, scaling digital infrastructure, and aligning curricula with industry needs. The government’s commitment to increased funding, like the ₹1,28,650 crore allocated in 2025-26, signals continued support for NEP’s vision.
- Key Points:
- Long-term impact expected over 10-15 years.
- Need to address access, infrastructure, and employability.
- ₹1,28,650 crore budget allocation for education in 2025-26.
Conclusion: NEP 2020 as a Blueprint for Viksit Bharat
NEP 2020 has laid a robust foundation for a future-ready education system, with PM SHRI Schools, ABC, and initiatives like NIPUN Bharat driving transformation. ABSS 2025 reaffirmed India’s commitment to becoming a global education hub. By fostering innovation, inclusivity, and cultural integration, NEP 2020 is shaping young minds for Viksit Bharat by 2047.
