Six years after the launch of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, India has made progress in implementing education reforms, but challenges in execution continue to persist. While the Centre has increased investments in education and introduced several flagship initiatives, experts say the policy’s long-term success will depend on effective implementation across states.
The Union government’s education budget has increased by around 64% since 2018, reaching a record ₹1.28 lakh crore in the 2025-26 Budget. However, education spending remains at around 2.4% of GDP, below the 6% target envisioned under NEP 2020.
Over the past five years, the Centre has allocated more than ₹3 lakh crore towards NEP-related programmes, including Samagra Shiksha, PM SHRI Schools, NIPUN Bharat, PM-USHA, DIKSHA, SWAYAM, teacher training and higher education reforms. These initiatives aim to improve infrastructure, digital learning, research and overall education quality.
NEP 2020 introduced major reforms such as the 5+3+3+4 school structure, experiential learning, early education in regional languages and greater emphasis on skill-based education. While digital platforms, curriculum reforms and teacher training have seen steady progress, areas such as infrastructure, foundational literacy, teacher availability and classroom implementation continue to vary across states.
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The policy’s three-language formula remains a subject of political debate, with some states supporting its implementation while others continue to oppose it. At the same time, digital learning has expanded through platforms such as DIKSHA, SWAYAM and PM eVidya, although unequal access to internet connectivity and digital devices continues to limit its reach.
As NEP 2020 completes six years, it has laid the foundation for significant changes in India’s education system. However, experts believe that sustained investment, stronger Centre-state coordination and consistent implementation will be essential to achieving the policy’s long-term vision
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