Introduction to NEP 2020
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aims to transform India’s educational landscape by introducing a holistic, flexible, and learner-centric framework that promotes creativity, critical thinking, equity, and lifelong learning. It is based on the five foundational pillars: Access, Equity, Quality, Affordability, and Accountability. (NEP 2020, Introduction – Page 3) NEP2020 implementation through PM SHRI Scheme is the implementation strategy of government of India. The PM SHRI scheme aims to develop more than 14,500 schools into exemplar institutions that showcase the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. These schools are envisioned to provide high-quality education with an emphasis on holistic development, critical thinking, and experiential learning. NEP 2020 implentation through PM SHRI Scheme in India is a must read topic for all educational professionals.
Before moving towards the implementation we should learn about the key highlights of NEP 2020
Key Highlights of NEP 2020
- Competency-based and experiential learning over rote memorization.
- Integration of multidisciplinary and flexible curriculum options.
- Focus on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) – the National Mission on FLN is key to early learning. (NEP 2020, Chapter 2 – Page 8)
- Emphasis on formative and adaptive assessments to reduce exam stress. (NEP 2020, Chapter 4 – Page 12)
- Use of technology and digital education through platforms like DIKSHA and NETF. (NEP 2020, Chapter 23 – Page 61)
- Instruction in mother tongue/local language till at least Grade 5. (NEP 2020, Chapter 4.11 – Page 13)
- Continuous teacher professional development, backed by NPST (National Professional Standards for Teachers). (NEP 2020, Chapter 5.21 – Page 22)
Comparative Lens: NEP 2020 vs NCF 2005
Before NEP 2020 Indian education was following NPE 1986 and NCF 2005 which itself was based on NPE 1986. after decades india cam up with a policy on education as NEP 2020. it is important to understand how NEP2020 bring significant difference than NCF2005 (which was consisting crux of all educational policies introduced before 2005). In the following table i have tried to compare various aspects covered under both in very precise manner
| Aspect | NCF 2005 | NEP 2020 |
| Pedagogy | Child-centered, constructivist | Competency-based, experiential, student-led |
| Assessment | Formative over summative | Continuous, competency-based, holistic assessments |
| Curriculum | Subject-based, relatively rigid | Flexible, multidisciplinary with vocational integration |
| Technology | Limited emphasis | Core enabler via EdTech, AI, and blended learning |
| Language Policy | Emphasis on multilingualism | Early mother-tongue instruction and three-language formula (context-based) |
Thrust Areas of NEP 2020
- Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN)
- Age-appropriate learning outcomes in early grades
- Play-based and activity-driven pedagogy (NEP 2020, Chapter 2 – Page 8)
- Curricular Restructuring: 5+3+3+4 Model
- Brings pre-school (ages 3–6) into formal education (NEP 2020, Chapter 1.3 – Page 4)
- Holistic, Multidisciplinary Education
- Across streams, with flexibility and choice (NEP 2020, Chapter 11.3 – Page 34)
- Teacher Development
- CPD (minimum 50 hours annually), digital literacy, NPST (NEP 2020, Chapter 5.21 – Page 22)
- Assessment Reforms
- Shift to Assessment for Learning
- Introduction of PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development) (NEP 2020, Chapter 4.37 – Page 14)
- Equity and Inclusion
- SEZs, gender inclusion, and support for CWSN (Children with Special Needs) (NEP 2020, Chapter 6 – Page 25)
- Technology Integration
- NETF, adaptive learning, virtual labs, digital content (NEP 2020, Chapter 23 – Page 60)
Introduction to PM SHRI Schools : NEP2020 implementation through PM SHRI Scheme
The PM SHRI (Prime Minister Schools for Rising India) scheme aims to develop over 14,500 schools into model institutions that showcase the holistic implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. These schools will serve as exemplars and mentor others to raise the standard of school education across India.
(Source: PM SHRI Guidelines, MoE – 2023)
Objectives of PM SHRI
• Implement the core principles of NEP 2020 in a holistic and integrated manner.
• Promote inclusive, competency-based, and experiential learning.
• Integrate digital literacy, life skills, and sustainability education.
• Encourage community participation and transparent school governance.
Six Pillars of PM SHRI Schools
(Aligned with NEP 2020 and School Quality Assessment Framework – SQAF)
| Pillar | Focus Area | NEP 2020 Chapter Linkage | SQAF Alignment |
| Pillar 1: Curriculum, Pedagogy and Assessment | Competency-based, experiential, and holistic learning with continuous assessments | Chapters 1, 2, 4, 24 | Curriculum, Learning Environment |
| Pillar 2: Access and Infrastructure | Safe, inclusive infrastructure, digital and physical access for all learners | Chapters 3, 7 | Infrastructure and Learning Resources |
| Pillar 3: Human Resources and School Leadership | Professional development, teacher empowerment, academic leadership | Chapters 5, 15 | Leadership, Management, and Human Resources |
| Pillar 4: Inclusive Practices and Gender Equity | Inclusion of children from SEDGs, gender sensitivity, barrier-free access | Chapter 6 | Equity and Inclusion |
| Pillar 5: Management, Monitoring and Governance | Transparent governance, data-driven decision-making, school accreditation | Chapter 8 | Governance Processes |
| Pillar 6: Beneficiary Satisfaction | Continuous feedback from stakeholders (students, parents, teachers) | Chapter 8 | Stakeholder Engagement and Satisfaction |
Implementation Strategy: PM SHRI + SQAF Alignment
1. School Selection and Benchmarking
• Schools are selected based on readiness and alignment with SQAF quality parameters.
• Emphasis on inclusion, digital infrastructure, governance, and academic outcomes.
2. Infrastructure and Digital Readiness
• Focus on smart classrooms, solar panels, science labs, and universal design for accessibility.
3. Teacher Development and Leadership
• Structured CPD (Continuous Professional Development), peer learning networks, and leadership training in sync with NPST.
4. Community and Industry Engagement
• Local community learning programs and industry partnerships to enhance vocational exposure and career readiness.
Conclusion
The PM SHRI initiative, deeply rooted in NEP 2020, represents a bold step toward reimagining school education in India. Its six pillars—grounded in equity, innovation, and community—create a framework for holistic and inclusive transformation. By embracing the School Quality Assessment Framework (SQAF) and focusing on teacher empowerment, technology, and learner well-being, PM SHRI schools will shape the future-ready, compassionate citizens of a new India.
Case Studies/ Example setters
1. Delhi Government Schools
- Happiness Curriculum aligned with NEP 2020 well-being goals. (image shared by Delhi SCERT)
- Widespread use of EdTech tools and FLN strategies.
2. Kerala Model
- High integration of multilingual education and inclusive practices.
- Digital content creation through community engagement.
3. Maharashtra STEM Push
- Experiential, project-based models in public schools. (Image credit: Maharshtra STEM learning Website)
- Partnership with private tech firms to enhance skill development.
Resource Materials
- NEP 2020 Full Policy Document
- SQAAF Document
- PM SHRI Document
https://www.education.gov.in/sites/upload_files/mhrd/files/NEP_Final_English_0.pdf
- PM SHRI Guidelines (MoE, 2023)
https://www.education.gov.in/en/pm-shri - SQAAF Handbook (NCERT 2023)
Conclusion
NEP 2020 implentation through PM SHRI Scheme in India is the most relevent topic in the field of education these days and for coming years too. all the states are expected to implement NEP 2020 by 2030 and selected schools are getting grants for the purpose but they are lacking in the form of guidance of using that funds. NEP2020 implementation through PM SHRI Scheme is the implementation strategy of government of India. Here, I have tried to clarify the concept of NEP 2020 and how PH SHRI scheme is related. this may help all professional in implemetation.
Leave your comment and your doubts.
After Reading the above content you may have curiosity regarding SQAAF. For understading SQAAF read my next article.
Rajni is an accomplished education professional who holds a PhD in Education and MPhil and MA degrees in Economics. She has extensive experience in research, having published over 16 research articles in peer-reviewed journals and contributed to articles in an edited book. Additionally, Rajni has authored a book in the field of education.
Rajni is passionate about making a difference in the field of education. She is an aspirant who is eager to do something innovative and valuable and is constantly striving towards creating a positive impact. She believes that education is a powerful tool which can change lives and that every student deserves access to quality education.
Rajni has a strong work ethic and a deep commitment to her profession. She is driven by her passion to learn, explore and contribute to the growth of the education sector. Her knowledge and experience in Economics and Education, combined with her intellectual curiosity and research skills, place her in a unique position to push the boundaries and creatively tackle complex challenges in the education field.
Overall, Rajni is an accomplished and driven professional who is poised to continue making a meaningful contribution in the field of education.