Introduction
India’s education system has undergone significant changes since independence. The National Policy on Education (NPE, 1986) and the National Education Policy (NEP, 2020) are two landmark documents that aimed to reform and strengthen the educational structure of the country. While NPE 1986 laid the foundation for universal access to education, NEP 2020 reimagines the school education system for the 21st century. This post compares the key recommendations of both policies concerning school education.
1. Structure of School Education
NPE, 1986
- Followed the 10+2 system: 10 years of general education and 2 years of senior secondary education.
- Stressed vocationalization at the +2 level to improve employability.
NEP, 2020
- Introduced a new 5+3+3+4 curricular structure: 5 years of Foundational, 3 years of Preparatory, 3 years of Middle, and 4 years of Secondary education.
- Aims to replace rigid separations between academic, vocational, and extracurricular streams.
2. Focus on Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE)
NPE, 1986
- Recognized ECCE but with limited actionable strategies.
- Integrated child development services (ICDS) were encouraged.
NEP, 2020
- Gives ECCE a central role in school education.
- Proposes universal access to quality ECCE by 2030.
- Develops National Curricular and Pedagogical Framework for ECCE (NCPFECCE).
3. Language and Medium of Instruction
NPE, 1986
- Emphasized the three-language formula.
- Promoted the use of regional languages and Hindi in schools.
NEP, 2020
- Reinforces the three-language formula but with flexibility.
- Recommends mother tongue/local language as medium of instruction at least till Grade 5, preferably till Grade 8.
4. Curriculum and Pedagogy
NPE, 1986
- Focused on learning by rote and textbook-centric teaching.
- Encouraged value education and moral education.
NEP, 2020
- Focuses on experiential learning, critical thinking, and conceptual understanding.
- Emphasizes reducing curriculum content to enhance understanding.
- Proposes National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE).
5. Assessment and Examinations
NPE, 1986
- Did not propose major changes in examination system.
- Focused mainly on board exams at secondary level.
NEP, 2020
- Reforms board exams to test core concepts and application.
- Introduces formative and competency-based assessment at all levels.
- Proposes National Assessment Centre (PARAKH).
6. Use of Technology
NPE, 1986
- Encouraged educational technology through TV and radio.
- Limited digital integration due to technological constraints.
NEP, 2020
- Strong focus on EdTech integration across all stages.
- Proposes National Educational Technology Forum (NETF).
- Encourages digital learning and online platforms.
7. Inclusion and Equity
NPE, 1986
- Focused on education for women, SCs, STs, and other disadvantaged groups.
NEP, 2020
- Emphasizes inclusive education for all marginalized and differently-abled learners.
- Proposes Gender Inclusion Fund and Special Education Zones.
Conclusion
While both NPE 1986 and NEP 2020 aimed to reform the Indian education system, NEP 2020 is more holistic, future-ready, and learner-centric. It addresses the shortcomings of earlier policies and incorporates global best practices to prepare learners for the challenges of the 21st century. Its successful implementation can transform school education into a more inclusive, engaging, and flexible system.