New Education Policy: Merits and Demerits

Introduction

The Indian education system has not seen significant development in over 30 years. Have we truly evolved to meet the current demands of the world? With rapid technological advancements, changing career landscapes, and increasing skill requirements, the introduction of the National Policy on Education was long overdue. The new policy, introduced on 29 July 2020 by the Union Cabinet of India, aims to bring schools closer to international academic standards. Though it promises holistic education, skill development, and digital inclusion, the question remains: Are we truly on track?

For instance, how will the digital divide impact students in underprivileged areas when only 40% of the rural population has internet access? NEP also emphasizes that 50% of learners will gain exposure to vocational education by 2025. Yet, we step into 2025, only a small percentage of schools offer structured vocational programs. Can we bridge this gap?

The recent 2023-24 UIDSE data reveals that school enrollment in India dropped by 37 lakh. The number of enrolled students reduced from 25.17 crore in 2022-23 to 24.80 crore in 2023-24. The most concerning factor is the significant decline in the enrollment of female students. Meanwhile, NEP 2020 presents a progressive vision, but its success depends on implementation and accessibility. Do you think India is truly prepared for this educational shift, or is there a long road ahead?

What is the New Education Policy?

The Ministry of Education launched the new education policy in India with the mission to completely transform the entire education system. It is designed to be more holistic, flexible, and aligned with 21st-century requirements.

Key Features

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The policy emphasizes overall development of students, ensuring they are equipped with critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Here are the key highlights:

• Holistic Education: Encourages a multidisciplinary approach, allowing students to choose subjects across arts, sciences, and vocational streams.
• Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE): Focuses on the foundational learning stage for children aged 3-8 years, emphasizing key reading, writing, and arithmetic skills.
• Curricular Reforms: Shifts from rote learning to critical thinking, conceptual learning, and creativity.
• New Curricular Structure: Introduces a 5+3+3+4 system for children aged 3-18, thus replacing the 10+2 structure.
• Higher Education Reforms: Aims to achieve a 50% Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) by 2035, with a 4-year undergraduate program with multiple exit options.
• Vocational Education: Integrates vocational education system from grade 6, including internships for teachers.
• Teacher Professional Development: Emphasis on continuous professional development and teacher training for better results.
• Technology in Education: Promotes digital literacy, programming, and multi-disciplinary computer concepts from an early age. The National Educational Technology Forum (NETF) was designed to enhance the use of technology.
• Equitable and Inclusive Education: Focuses on reducing dropouts and ensuring access to education for all marginalized and disadvantaged groups and special needs children.
• Assessment Reforms: Transform learning experience by shifting from memorization to competency-based assessments, prioritising on testing core concepts and application of knowledge.
• Languages and Multilingualism: Encourages native or regional language instruction till class 5 to improve foundational learning.

How is NEP Helpful for Teachers?

As the saying goes, ‘Teachers transform students’ lives.’— This is shown in their commitment and efforts, which are important for the successful implementation of the new education policy. Here are the key pointers in which NEP 2020 is helpful for teachers:

How is NEP helpful for Students?

The new education policy in India is designed to make the education system flexible, holistic, and relevant to the students’ needs. It provides them with the skills and knowledge needed for building a career. Here’s how the new policy helps students:

Also Read: 7 best ways to prepare students interested in a vocational and/or technical career

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of NEP?

The new education policy has notable advantages, such as promoting critical thinking, encouraging inclusivity, and aligning with global standards. However, it has its challenges in implementation, particularly in rural areas and ensuring equal access to resources. Making sure that these changes reach across the country remains a key concern. Evaluating the impact of the new policy depends on understanding both the merits and demerits of NEP.

Advantages of New Education Policy

The new education policy in India introduces a variety of transformative refinements designed to improve the quality, inclusivity, and adaptability of the current education system. Bidhan Chandra College, Asansol, West Bengal, is one such institution that has focused on holistic development, integrating humanities, arts, and STEM disciplines, and was able to implement NEP 2020. The policy focuses on character development, independent thinking, social skills, and patriotism. Their implementation has improved students’ academics, social skills, and overall well-being.

Let us understand some of the key merits of NEP 2020:

• Designing the School Structure:

  The traditional 10+2 school structure is being replaced with a new structure of 5+3+3+4. This change reduces the exam pressure and aligns education with a child’s developmental stages: 3-8 years, 8-11 years, 11-14 years, and 14-18 years.

  

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  Students are trained in hands-on activities like gardening, carpentry, pottery, and painting. They focus on vocational learning from grades 6 to 8. This allows them to explore their interests and gain practical skills. This approach nurtures both the mind and the skills required for the real world. NEP 2020 also introduces computers and coding classes, which will be a positive step towards improving the learning process.

• Providing Flexibility in Learning:It is often asked, ‘Does NEP introduce multiple entry and exit options in higher education?’ The answer is ‘Yes’, it enables students to get certificates, diplomas, or degrees depending on the duration of their studies. This flexibility allows them to re-enter the education system when needed. Thus reducing the dropout rates.
• Focusing on Core Skills:The Ministry of Education created a national mission on core literacy and numeracy skills. NCERT creates a curriculum and pedagogical framework for early childhood education up to third grade. This implementation plan is to be completed by 2025.
• Emphasising Assessment:The new education policy tests students’ critical thinking, rationalization, problem-solving, and creativity through practical applications. It will help them to evaluate their efforts and determine accuracy, ensuring authenticity and factual understanding.
• Creating Holistic and Multidisciplinary Education:The policy encourages a holistic approach where students are allowed to choose subjects from different streams between arts, sciences, and vocational subjects. This allows for a multidisciplinary education system that builds the various skills required for real-world challenges and develops innovative thinking.

  To support schools in implementing these changes, financial assistance plays a crucial role. Institutions can enhance infrastructure and educational resources with the help of leading NBFCs like Varthana, enabling a seamless transition to this modern learning framework.

• Embracing the Mantra—Education is a Basic Right:Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan provides compulsory education from the age of 8 to 14 years, which is successfully implemented by the government. The new education policy includes free education in government schools for children between 3 and 18 years.
• Promoting Inclusive and Equitable EducationThe policy ensures that every child has access to quality education regardless of socio-economic background. Additionally, this policy put a special emphasis on girls, differently-abled students, and those from rural areas.
• Investing in the Education Sector:India’s education system previously accounted for only 3% of its GDP. With the new policy, investment has risen to 6%, a significant step forward. However, its true impact will be clear only after full implementation.
• Improving Teaching Methodology:The measures to ensure that the education system can support and assist students, as well as to teach disabled students. In 2022, NCERT, SCERTs, and the National Board of Teacher Education developed a common platform, National Professional Standards for Teachers (NPST), in consultation with teachers and expert bodies.
• Other programs:Special Bal Bhavans and boarding schools provide students opportunities in sports, careers, and arts. A comprehensive national education policy is needed, and States/UTs will set up the Independent State School Standards Authority (SSSA).

Disadvantages of New Education Policy

The new education policy in India has been acknowledged as a visionary reform in the education system in India. The policy has concerns about practical implementation in a diverse and resource-constrained country like India. Below are some of the key demerits:

• English language:Under the new education policy, government schools introduce English later than private schools, starting only after Class 5. While the curriculum will be taught in regional languages, this may create a gap, as students from government schools could face challenges in English communication compared to their peers in private schools.
• Implementation Challenges:The successful implementation requires significant resources like funding, infrastructure, and trained teachers. Many schools in rural areas lack the necessary resources to effectively implement the policy. The policy demands retraining of teachers to align with the new curriculum, and teaching methods is a major challenge, particularly in under-resourced areas.
• Focus on Digital Learning:While digital learning is essential, a recent study shows that many Indians cannot afford a smartphone, and even fewer have access to a computer. Government schools often lack a strong IT infrastructure, making it difficult for students in remote areas or from low-income backgrounds to adapt. Ensuring quick access to these facilities is crucial for inclusive learning.
• Undergraduate Program:Did you know that under the updated policy, students can leave graduate school and still receive a certificate or diploma? This may cause students to drop out without completing their studies. This may lead to not being serious about course completion and create high drop-out rates.
• Practical Challenges in Vocational Education:Well-structured programs and skilled teachers are required to integrate vocational education. There is a lack of trained vocational teachers, and appropriate curricula need to be developed. India carries a stigma on vocational education, considering it less prestigious than academic education.
• Assessment and Exam Refinement:Implementing competency-based assessments uniformly across all schools is challenging. There is a risk of subjective evaluations, which could lead to disparities in student outcomes.
• Overemphasis on Local Languages:The focus on regional languages may create challenges in states with diverse linguistic populations. Students who move between regions with different dominant languages may face difficulties in adjusting to new educational environments, affecting their learning development.
• Increased Pressure on Teachers:When teachers have more responsibilities, it could lead to an increased workload, which could affect their performance and well-being. Additional responsibilities like mentoring, continuous professional development, and involvement in curriculum design.
• Unclear Roadmap for Implementation:While the new policy sets futuristic goals, it provides limited information on the steps to be taken to achieve these goals. The lack of a clear implementation plan may lead to inconsistency and delay in realizing the policy’s full potential.

Also Read: 6 Ways Examination and Assessment Reforms are Changing Indian Schools

Solutions to Overcome the Challenges

Here are the solutions to implement for overcoming the above-mentioned challenges:

1. Bridging the English Language Gap

Government schools should introduce English as a secondary subject from an early stage while continuing regional language instruction. Providing additional English learning resources and interactive programs can help students develop strong communication skills.

2. Ensuring Effective Implementation

The government must allocate sufficient funds for infrastructure, teacher training, and digital resources. Schools can also partner with trusted NBFCs like Varthana to receive financial support to overcome any potential hindrance related to school development. Special focus should be given to rural schools, ensuring they receive the necessary support to adopt the new curriculum effectively.

3. Strengthening Digital Learning Access

Affordable digital devices, free internet access, and smart classrooms should be introduced, especially in remote and underprivileged areas. Public-private partnerships can help expand IT infrastructure in government schools.

4. Improving Vocational Education

Skilled professionals should be trained as vocational educators, and awareness campaigns should be conducted to reduce the stigma around vocational courses. Collaboration with industries can provide practical exposure and increase career opportunities for students.

5. Providing a Clear Implementation Roadmap

A structured action plan with clear timelines should be developed for each phase of the policy. Regular monitoring and feedback mechanisms should be established to ensure consistency and address challenges in execution.

Conclusion

The new education policy has the potential to bring a positive transformation to the education system. However, its success depends on how well it can tackle the challenges that come with implementation issues, limited resources, digital learning, need for effective teacher training, etc. The policy’s vision is ambitious and future-focused. Its success lies in careful planning, sufficient funding, and inclusivity. As a school leader, if you are planning to incorporate NEP and improve classroom functions without any financial worries, Varthana provides tailored financial solutions, offering flexible EMI and collateral options to support seamless implementation.

Read More:

• Examining the Benefits and Drawbacks of Year-Round Schooling in India
• Examining the benefits and drawbacks of online learning

FAQs

1. What are the limitations of the New Education Policy?

• Lack of infrastructure for implementing the NEP.
• Shortage of trained faculty which is crucial for successful implementation.
• Funding constraints which require adequate financial support to execute the proposed reforms effectively.
• Risk of dropout as undergraduate programs of four years may lead to students leaving courses midway. Shorter diploma programs might remain a quicker option, potentially affecting completion rates.
• Focus on foundational learning compromises students’ ability to master grade-level outcomes.
• Equity concerns as well-resourced private schools may implement the reforms more effectively than underfunded public schools.
• Vocational education curriculum may face resistance due to the social stigma potentially limiting its effectiveness.

2. What are the good things about NEP?

• Holistic learning by integrating arts, sports, and vocational education alongside academic subjects.
• Flexible curriculum as students get to choose subjects based on their interests and career aspirations.
• Early Childhood Education plays a crucial role in cognitive development.
• Multilingual education benefits cognitive abilities and cultural understanding.
• Technology integration aims to enhance digital literacy, e-learning, and adaptive assessments.
• Higher education reforms propose flexible degree structures, and increased research funding. These changes can elevate the quality of higher education.
• Inclusive education bridges gaps in access and quality, especially for marginalized communities.

3. Is NEP based on CBSE or ICSE?

The New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is not based on either the CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) or ICSE (Indian Certificate of Secondary Education) systems. Instead, it is a comprehensive framework designed to change the entire education system in India, applicable to all boards.

4. How will NEP affect students?

The New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is poised to positively impact students by encouraging a more holistic and flexible education system. It emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and practical skills and vocational training from an early age. NEP promotes digital literacy and inclusivity, ensuring students from diverse backgrounds have access to technological tools. With a focus on multilingual instruction and competency-based assessments, NEP aims to enhance students’ overall learning experience, reduce exam stress, and better prepare them for future challenges.

5. What are the merits and demerits of the Indian education system?

Merits:

• Diverse curriculum: Offers a wide range of subjects and specializations, catering to various interests and career paths.
• Focus on academic excellence: Emphasizes rigorous academic standards and high performance, which can lead to strong foundational knowledge.
• Wide reach: Extensive network of schools and universities, providing education across urban and rural areas.
• Cultural and moral education: Incorporates values and cultural education, promoting social and ethical awareness.
• Competitive examination system: Prepares students for national and international competitive exams, fostering a high level of preparedness.

Demerits:

• Rote learning: Often emphasizes memorization over critical thinking and practical application, leading to superficial understanding.
• Unequal access: Disparities in educational quality and resources between urban and rural areas, and between private and public institutions.
• Pressure and stress: High-stakes exams and academic pressure can lead to significant stress and mental health issues among students.
• Lack of practical skills: Insufficient focus on vocational training and life skills, affecting employability and practical readiness.
• Outdated curriculum: Some curricula may not be updated regularly to reflect modern educational needs and technological advancements.

6. What are the 5 New Education Policy?

• Curriculum and Pedagogy Reforms: Multidisciplinary approach, integrating subjects and focusing on critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
• School Education Structure: New school education structure 5+3+3+4, which includes five years of foundational stage (ages 3-8), three years of preparatory stage (ages 8-11), three years of middle stage (ages 11-14), and four years of secondary stage (ages 14-18).
• Higher Education and Vocational Training: Promotes multiple entry and exit points in higher education, allowing students to earn certificates, diplomas, or degrees based on their study duration and vocational education into mainstream schooling.
• Teacher Education and Training: It aims to improve teacher quality through regular training, career advancement opportunities, and the introduction of a National Mission to Focus on Basic Literacy and Numeracy.
• Inclusivity and Equity: To provide equitable access to quality education for all students, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds and the promotion of education in mother tongues, support for differently-abled students.

7. How will NEP affect students?

The New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is set to positively impact students by introducing a more flexible and comprehensive education system, adapting their education to their evolving interests and career goals, integrating vocational training and promoting digital literacy, ensuring that students are well-prepared for future challenges and opportunities.

8. What are the main changes in NEP?

• Revised School Education Structure:5+3+3+4 System
• Curriculum and Pedagogy Reform: Holistic and Multidisciplinary Approach
• Flexible Higher Education: Multiple Entry and Exit Points
• Vocational Education Integration: Early Introduction of vocational training
• Focus on Digital Literacy: Technology in Education
• Teacher Training and Professional Development: Continuous Improvement
• Early Childhood Education Strengthening: Foundational Literacy and Numeracy
• Assessment Reforms: Competency-Based Evaluation
• Inclusivity and Equity: Access for All

9. What are the 4 pillars of NEP?

The New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is built upon four foundational pillars:

• Access and Equity
• Quality and Excellence
• Affordability and Sustainability
• Relevance and Flexibility

10. What is the main point of NEP?

The main point of the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is to transform India’s education system by making it more holistic, inclusive, and adaptable to the needs of the 21st century, focusing on critical thinking, flexibility, and equitable access to quality education.

11. What was the major failure of the NEP?

A major failure has been its implementation, particularly in bridging the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to resources, which has led to uneven progress across different regions and socio-economic groups.