National Education Policy 2020

In progress

Reshape education to be equitable, flexible, multidisciplinary, and rooted in Indian ethos while meeting global standards; universalise access, end rote learning, and integrate vocational education.

What was promised

  • 100% gross enrolment in preschool to secondary education by 2030, and 50% in higher education by 2035 (from 26.3% in 2018).
  • 100% youth and adult literacy; public investment in education at 6% of GDP; a new 5+3+3+4 curricular structure replacing 10+2.

The 2030 and 2035 enrolment targets are ambitious against current trajectories. The fair reading is structural reform underway (new curricula, 5+3+3+4 adoption) rather than enrolment targets achieved.

Progress update history

  • Implementation is state-dependent and uneven; no single official national scorecard exists. Public spending on education remains about 3–4% of GDP, below the 6% goal.

  • Higher-education enrolment: 28.4% (2021-22), up from 26.3% in 2018 but far from 50% by 2035. Higher-secondary enrolment: 58.4% (2024-25), a long way from 100% through secondary by 2030.

Sources: PIB, National Education Policy 2020 (Cabinet approval)

← All policies