President Droupadi Murmu has emphasized the transformative impact of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, stating that it has brought far-reaching changes by aligning learning with values and skills with tradition. Addressing the nation on the eve of the 79th Independence Day, the President highlighted that the NEP 2020 has already begun to show results in cultivating young minds and fostering a new mindset that embraces both traditional wisdom and contemporary knowledge.
President Murmu underscored that the ongoing period leading up to the centenary of India's Independence, known as Amrit Kaal, will be shaped by the youth of today, and their energy and enthusiasm will be instrumental in the nation scaling new heights. In this context, the NEP 2020 plays a crucial role in creating an environment conducive to innovation and enterprise.
The President noted the government's commitment to harnessing the talent of the youth by introducing initiatives that facilitate skilling, employment, and other opportunities. She mentioned the Prime Minister's package of five schemes for employment and skilling, which is expected to benefit 4.1 crore youth over five years. Additionally, a new government initiative aims to provide internships to one crore youth in leading companies over the next five years. These efforts are seen as foundational contributions towards building a Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
Furthermore, President Murmu highlighted the expansion of India's space program, fueled by young minds. She expressed confidence that Shubhanshu Shukla's space journey to the International Space Station would inspire an entire generation to dream bigger and contribute to India's upcoming human space flight program, Gaganyaan.
In addition to academics and space exploration, the President acknowledged the growing prominence of Indian youth in sports. She cited the country's rising dominance in chess, exemplified by 18-year-old D Gukesh becoming the youngest world champion and the historic all-India final at the Women's World Cup. She also noted that sports is a key measure of empowerment, and she anticipates transformative changes under the forthcoming National Sports Policy 2025.
The NEP 2020, which replaced the National Policy on Education adopted in 1986, aims to bring significant changes to the education system in line with the demands of the time. The policy promotes creative ability and provides better employment opportunities for students. It extends the Right to Education (RTE) Act to all schools, from pre-school to Class 12, instead of the previous Class 1 to Class 8. The policy also restructures the schooling system based on a 5+3+3+4 formula, replacing the 10+2 model. This new structure includes a foundation stage for students aged 3-8 years, preparatory schooling for ages 8-11, middle school for ages 11-14, and secondary level for ages 14-18.
President Murmu's address underscores the government's focus on empowering the youth and creating a conducive environment for them to excel in various fields. The NEP 2020 is envisioned as a key enabler in this endeavor, aligning education with values, promoting skilling and entrepreneurship, and fostering a spirit of innovation and excellence among the younger generation.
