Economic Survey 2023-24: NEP 2020 Empowers India's Education System for 21st Century

Envisioned as a comprehensive framework aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on education, the NEP 2020 is geared towards equipping India's youth to navigate the challenges and opportunities of a knowledge-driven economy.

The Economic Survey 2023-24, presented in Parliament by Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, highlights the transformative impact of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 on India's education landscape. Envisioned as a comprehensive framework aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on education, the NEP 2020 is geared towards equipping India's youth to navigate the challenges and opportunities of a knowledge-driven economy.

Focus on Quality Education and Access

The Survey underscores that India's school education system, encompassing both public and private schools, serves approximately 26 crore students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. The NEP 2020 aims to ensure every learner between the ages of 3 to 18 years receives access to high-quality education rooted in Indian culture. This initiative aims to position India as a global knowledge superpower.

'Poshan bhi Padhai bhi' Initiative

Aligned with NEP 2020 guidelines, the Survey highlights the launch of 'Poshan bhi Padhai bhi' (PBPB) in May 2023. This groundbreaking Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) program aims to establish the world’s largest, universal, high-quality preschool network at Anganwadi Centres. For the first time, the program covers early stimulation for children aged 0-3 years, ensuring at least two hours of daily high-quality preschool instruction. The curriculum emphasizes play-based and activity-based learning tailored to developmental milestones, including support for children with disabilities.

Strengthening Anganwadi Infrastructure

Recognizing the critical role of Anganwadis in child development, the Survey emphasizes the need to enhance their infrastructure with high-quality facilities, play equipment, and trained personnel. As of January 2024, 3,735 State Level Master Trainers have been trained across 25 states and 182 districts, with 40,000 Master Trainers expected to play a pivotal role in ECCE training.

Key Initiatives Driving NEP 2020 Goals

The Survey outlines several government initiatives that are pivotal in translating NEP 2020 into action and achieving its educational objectives:

- Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan: A comprehensive program integrating various educational initiatives.

- NISHTHA: An integrated teacher training program aimed at enhancing pedagogical skills.

- Vidya Pravesh: A preparatory module for Grade-I students.

- Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya (KGBV): Providing education to girls from disadvantaged backgrounds.

- Inclusive Education for Children with Special Needs (CwSN): Ensuring inclusive education from pre-primary to class XII.

- DIKSHA Initiative: A digital platform for learning resources in multiple languages.

- PM-SHRI: Supporting infrastructure development in schools.

Progress in School Infrastructure and Vocational Education

The Survey also reports significant progress in school infrastructure, including increased availability of toilets, hand washing facilities, electricity, and internet access. Moreover, vocational education has expanded to cover 29,342 schools across various sectors, offering 88 job roles by FY24.

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