NEP 2020 Explained: What Changed from School to College? | UPSC–MPPSC Most Expected Topic 2026 Special Report | Exam-Oriented Analysis | Current Affairs

MPSelectionPoint January 18, 2026

NEP 2020 Explained: What Changed from School to College?

UPSC–MPPSC Most Expected Topic 2026

Special Report | Exam-Oriented Analysis

Introduction

For a long time, India's education system was based on the National Policy on Education 1986, which was becoming inadequate to meet the demands of the changing global landscape, technical progress, and skill-based economy. Against this backdrop, the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) was approved by the Union Cabinet on July 29, 2020. This policy presents a historic shift towards holistic, flexible, multidisciplinary, and skill-centered education from school to higher education.

From the perspective of UPSC, MPPSC, and other competitive exams, NEP 2020 is a high-weightage, multi-dimensional, and contemporary (Current + Static) topic—significant for Prelims, Mains, and Essay levels.

Core Objectives of NEP 2020

Equity and Inclusion
Holistic Development
Promoting Multilingualism and Mother Tongue
Freedom from Rote Learning; Skill-based Education
Effective Use of Technology in Education
Indian Education System in line with Global Standards

Part–1: Major Changes in School Education

End of 10+2 Structure, Start of 5+3+3+4 Model

NEP 2020 replaced the traditional 10+2 structure with the 5+3+3+4 pedagogical structure:

1. Foundational Stage (5 Years): 3 Years Pre-school + Grades 1–2

2. Preparatory Stage (3 Years): Grades 3–5

3. Middle Stage (3 Years): Grades 6–8

4. Secondary Stage (4 Years): Grades 9–12

ECCE: For the first time, children aged 3–6 years are included in the formal education framework.

Mother Tongue: Provision for teaching in the mother tongue or local language up to Grade 5.

Skill Development: Introduction of Vocational Education and Internships from Grade 6 onwards.

Part–2: Revolutionary Reforms in Higher Education

Multiple Entry–Exit System

Students can now leave their studies midway and resume later with proper certification:

1 Year – Certificate
2 Years – Diploma
3 Years – Bachelor's Degree
4 Years – Bachelor's with Research

Academic Bank of Credits (ABC): Digital credits of students will be stored safely to allow seamless mobility between institutions.

HECI (Higher Education Commission of India)

A single umbrella body merging UGC and AICTE, consisting of four verticals:

NHERC (Regulation)
NAAC (Accreditation)
HEGC (Funding)
GEC (Academic Standard Setting)

Part–3: Teachers, Technology, and Inclusion

1 Teacher Reforms: 4-year integrated B.Ed. degree made mandatory.

2 Digital Education: Integration of technology through portals like DIKSHA and SWAYAM.

3 Inclusion: Gender Inclusion Fund and Special Education Zones for disadvantaged groups.

4 Foreign Universities: Allowing top 100 global universities to open campuses in India.

5 Research: Establishment of the National Research Foundation (NRF).

NEP 2020: Challenges

Varied pace of implementation across different states.
Digital divide and lack of internet access in rural areas.
Requirement of massive funding and infrastructure.
Adapting to new teaching methodologies by existing teachers.

Conclusion

NEP 2020 presents a roadmap to move the Indian education system from rote learning to critical thinking, from degrees to skills, and from local to global standards. If implemented effectively, this policy can play a decisive role in making India a global knowledge superpower.

"NEP 2020 is not just an education reform, but a blueprint for India's socio-economic future."