Paper Details

Education is widely recognized as a fundamental driver of socio-economic development, social equity, and human empowerment. In India, the introduction of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 marks a major reform in the education sector, aiming to transform the traditional education system into a more inclusive, flexible, and multidisciplinary model. The policy aligns itself with global development frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4, which emphasizes inclusive and equitable quality education for all. This research article examines the objectives, features, and potential impact of NEP 2020 in promoting sustainable development in India. The study also analyzes the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and how digital learning and policy reforms have reshaped the educational landscape. Using secondary data sources such as academic journals, government reports, and the edited volume National Education Policy 2020: Meeting Sustainable Development Goals, the paper evaluates the effectiveness of NEP 2020 in addressing issues such as gender equality, access to education, technological integration, and educational equity. The findings suggest that although NEP 2020 presents a promising framework for educational transformation, its success largely depends on effective implementation, resource allocation, teacher training, and bridging the digital divide. The study concludes that NEP 2020 has the potential to contribute significantly to sustainable development if the policy objectives are implemented in a systematic and inclusive manner.

National Education Policy 2020, Sustainable Development Goals, Inclusive Education, Digital Learning, Educational Reform, Gender Equality