Public Policy Case Studies: An Overview

Public policies are tools through which governments address pressing societal
challenges, promote development, and ensure the welfare of citizens. In India,
several flagship initiatives have been implemented to address key areas like
education, healthcare, employment, and economic empowerment. This
discussion explores four critical case studies: the National Education Policy
(2020), the National Health Mission, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural
Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA), and economic empowerment
measures such as the Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) and Direct
Benefit Transfer (DBT).

In today’s world, there is a huge demand for knowledge because everything is

changing quickly, especially in fields like science and technology. For example,
new technologies like artificial intelligence are growing fast, and many jobs are
now being done by machines. This means that people need to have specialized
knowledge and skills to stay competitive and succeed in the global job market.
Countries that don’t focus on providing quality education will fall behind as the
world continues to advance. It’s not just about science and technology fields;
knowledge is also very important in non-science fields like humanities, social
sciences, and mass communication. These areas help in shaping government
policies and finding solutions to global problems.
Today, many countries are facing common problems that require shared
solutions. For these solutions to work, everyone needs access to quality
education. Without it, both individuals and nations will be left behind in global
progress. This is especially true for developing nations like India, where global
issues can affect people at the local level.
So, for India to succeed, it is crucial for the government to ensure that all
Indians have access to quality education and the necessary knowledge, so they
can compete in the global community.
  Adapting to Change: As the world is changing rapidly, it's important for
the education system to teach new subjects and skills to help individuals
adapt to these changes.
 Focus on Critical Skills: The learning process should emphasize problem-
solving, critical thinking, innovation, and adaptability to prepare
students for the shifting demands of the world.
 Pedagogical Changes: The way we teach (pedagogics) needs to become
more practical, inclusive, engaging, and learner-centered. Learning
should be flexible, discussion-based, and encourage discovery.
 Multidisciplinary Curriculum: The curriculum should combine various
subjects (like science, arts, and social studies) to develop a well-rounded
personality in students and help them be prepared for diverse careers.
 Holistic Development: Education should aim to make students more
principled, thoughtful, and competent, so they can contribute positively
to society and succeed in their careers.
 Need for Education Reforms: There is a need for major reforms to make
the education system more equitable, high-quality, and integrity-based
from early childhood education to higher education.

History of EDUCATION POLICIES in India

After India gained independence, the country had to build its educational
system from scratch. At that time, there were very few schools and colleges,
and many technical and vocational courses were underdeveloped. There was a
shortage of trained teachers, and education was not equally available across
the country—some regions had better access to education than others,
influenced by their social and cultural backgrounds.
At the school level, there was too much focus on learning English, while other
important subjects, including Indian languages, were neglected. The amount of
money spent on education was also very limited, which affected the overall
quality of the education system.
To address these issues, the Indian government formed committees and
commissions to find solutions. One major step was the creation of more
universities. The idea behind this was that universities would not only serve as
centers of knowledge but also provide jobs. Universities were expected to help
individuals become more knowledgeable, scientific, and rational, guiding the
nation’s development.
Between 1948-49, the University Education Commission was established,
focusing on improving higher education. This commission outlined the role of
universities in creating individuals who could contribute to national
development, especially in administration and industry. They also gave
guidelines for school education, suggesting that schools should provide solid
education and skills for students who may not want to attend university but
still need to be skilled in their work.

Several educational commissions were set up in India to improve the education

system over time. The Secondary Education Commission (1952-53) focused on
creating a higher secondary education system, diversifying courses, introducing
the three-language formula (teaching students their regional language, Hindi,
and English), providing guidance for both education and vocational sectors,
improving teaching methods, and updating educational infrastructure to meet
growing demands.
The Education Commission (1964-66) aimed to create a clear national
education policy. It emphasized increasing productivity, promoting national
unity, and contributing to the overall development of society. It looked at all
aspects of the education system and aimed for a comprehensive change.
In 2005, the National Knowledge Commission (NKC) was created to improve
the quality of education and strengthen knowledge-based institutions in India.
It also recommended that state governments be consulted for policies on
school education, as they play a crucial role in it. Each of these commissions
played a key role in shaping India’s educational landscape by addressing
different needs and challenges over time.
In addition to the commissions, the Indian government has also formulated
and implemented several policies to improve the education system. These
policies aimed to address various aspects of education, like accessibility,
quality, and values. Here’s a simplified explanation:
1. National Policy on Education (1968):
o The goal was to reconstruct the education system at all levels.
o It focused on giving importance to Science and Technology.
o It aimed to help students develop a moral and ethical sense.
o It emphasized that education and society are connected and
depend on each other for progress.
2. National Education Policy (1986):
o This policy was reviewed and revised to meet the challenges of
the future.
o Its key goals were to:
 Increase access to education for more people.
 Improve educational standards across the country.
 Strengthen the values of secularism, socialism, and
equality, as mentioned in the Indian Constitution.
3. Schooling Systems: The government introduced various types of
schooling systems to make education more accessible:
o Common School System (CSS): Aims to provide the same quality
of education to all children, no matter their background.
o Neighbourhood Schools: Schools that are closer to where children
live to make it easier for them to attend.
o Alternative Schools: Schools with flexible methods of teaching, for
children who may not fit into the regular system.
4. Educational Schemes and Programs: Several schemes and programs
were also introduced to improve education:
o Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA): A program aimed at ensuring
universal primary education for all children.
o National Curriculum Framework (NCF): A set of guidelines for
creating a national curriculum for schools to improve education
quality.
 o Five-Year Plans: These plans included education development
goals to improve the infrastructure and overall quality of
education.
In summary, along with setting up commissions, the government implemented
policies, schooling systems, and educational schemes to improve education in
India by focusing on accessibility, quality, and values.

The National Education Policy (NEP) 1986 was updated and replaced by the
NEP 2020 to address the changing needs of society, economy, and education
systems, which had evolved significantly over three decades. Here are the
main reasons for the change:

1. Changing Demands of the 21st Century:

The NEP 1986 was designed for a different era and did not account for the
rapid advances in technology, globalization, and modern job markets.
Fields like artificial intelligence, data science, and digital technologies are now
crucial, requiring a new education policy that emphasizes critical thinking,
problem-solving, and technology integration.
2. Focus on Skill Development:
NEP 1986 primarily focused on basic education and literacy.
NEP 2020 emphasizes skill development and vocational training from an early
stage to prepare students for evolving job markets.
3. Need for Holistic Education:
NEP 2020 moves beyond rote learning, promoting a multidisciplinary approach
that combines arts, sciences, and vocational skills.
The focus shifted to the overall development of students, including creativity,
innovation, and ethical values.
4. Global Benchmarks:
NEP 2020 aligns with global standards of education and India's commitment to
the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4), which emphasize inclusive,
equitable, and quality education for all.
5. Language and Cultural Preservation:
NEP 2020 promotes mother tongue-based learning up to Grade 5, which
wasn't a significant focus of NEP 1986.
This ensures the preservation of India's linguistic and cultural diversity.
6. Addressing Educational Inequalities:
NEP 1986 had limited success in bridging the gap in access to quality education
for rural and marginalized communities.
NEP 2020 places greater emphasis on equity, inclusion, and ensuring that
education reaches every child, irrespective of socio-economic background.
7. Early Childhood Education:
NEP 1986 did not adequately address the importance of early childhood care
and education (ECCE).
NEP 2020 introduces foundational learning for children aged 3–6 years to build
a strong educational base.
8. Flexible Education System:
NEP 2020 introduces a 5+3+3+4 system of school education, replacing the rigid
10+2 system under NEP 1986.
It also emphasizes flexibility in higher education, allowing students to choose
multidisciplinary courses and exit with different qualifications.
9. Higher Education Reforms:
NEP 2020 introduces major reforms in higher education, such as:
A single regulatory body for higher education.
Focus on research through the National Research Foundation (NRF).
Flexibility for students to pursue multiple disciplines and seamless credit
transfers.
10. Assessment and Exams:
NEP 2020 shifts away from exam-centric education to continuous and
competency-based assessments that measure real understanding and skills,
unlike the emphasis on annual examinations in NEP 1986.
Summary:
The shift from NEP 1986 to NEP 2020 was driven by the need to modernize
India’s education system, make it globally competitive, and ensure it equips
learners with the skills and values needed for the rapidly changing world. NEP
2020 focuses on flexibility, inclusivity, quality, and innovation, making it a more
holistic and forward-looking policy.

Exam Answer: The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is a transformative framework
introduced by the Indian government to overhaul the education system. It
aims to address the challenges of modern education while preserving India's
rich cultural heritage. The policy is designed to make education holistic,
inclusive, and adaptable to global changes, ultimately positioning India as a
global knowledge superpower.

Key Features of NEP 2020

1. Recognizing Unique Talents
The policy emphasizes identifying and nurturing the unique abilities of
every student, encouraging both academic and non-academic growth.
2. Achieving Literacy and Numeracy by Grade 3
NEP 2020 ensures that every child achieves foundational literacy and
numeracy skills by the age of 8.
3. Flexible and Multidisciplinary Education
Students have the freedom to choose subjects and combine disciplines,
reflecting the real-world need for diverse skill sets. Vocational and
academic streams are treated equally.
4. Equal Importance to All Subjects
Subjects like science, arts, sports, and vocational training are valued
equally, providing holistic education.
5. Shift from Rote Learning to Conceptual Understanding
The policy focuses on deep learning and critical thinking instead of
memorization.
6. Ethics and Value-Based Education
Moral values, democratic principles, and respect for Indian culture are
integral to the curriculum.
7. Multilingual Education
Emphasis is placed on teaching in multiple languages, including regional
languages, to preserve linguistic heritage and enhance communication
skills.
8. Life Skills for a Changing World
The curriculum includes teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving
skills to prepare students for global challenges.
9. Reformed Examination System
Assessments will be competency-based, focusing on understanding and
high-order thinking. State Census Exams for Classes 3, 5, and 8 will
monitor progress.
10.5+3+3+4 Curriculum Framework
A restructured school education system ensures age-appropriate
learning stages:
o Foundational Stage (5 years): Preschool to Class 2.
o Preparatory Stage (3 years): Classes 3-5.
o Middle Stage (3 years): Classes 6-8.
o Secondary Stage (4 years): Classes 9-12.
11.Technology Integration
Digital tools are used to make education more innovative and accessible
to all learners.
 12.Focus on Research and Innovation
Establishes the National Research Foundation to improve research
quality and foster innovation in India.
13.Empowering Teachers
NEP 2020 provides resources and training to teachers while ensuring a
supportive work environment.
14.Seamless Education Pathways
It ensures smooth transitions across all education levels, from early
childhood care to higher education.
15.Quality Education for All
The Right to Education Act is extended to include children aged 3 to 18,
ensuring that no child is left behind.
16.Increased Investment in Education
The policy recommends increasing public spending on education to 6%
of GDP.
17.Preserving Culture and Knowledge
It integrates India’s ancient knowledge systems with modern
advancements for a balanced education system.
18.National-Level Educational Bodies
Establishes the National Higher Education Regulatory Authority
(NHERA) and the Rashtriya Shiksha Aayog to oversee reforms and
governance.

Goals of NEP 2020

NEP 2020 aims to create a robust, inclusive, and flexible education system that
combines India's rich traditions with global advancements. It seeks to produce
knowledgeable, skilled, and ethical individuals who respect the Constitution,
contribute to society, and are well-prepared for a dynamic global environment.
By focusing on equity, excellence, and innovation, NEP 2020 aspires to
transform India into a global knowledge superpower.
 Evaluation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
Post-independence, various governments in India have introduced policies,
commissions, and programs to develop the education sector. Although the
progress has been gradual, these efforts have collectively strengthened the
sector, positioning India on the global educational map. The National
Education Policy (NEP) 2020 builds on this legacy, bringing innovative reforms
to address contemporary educational needs while promoting inclusivity and
accessibility.

Advantages of NEP 2020

1. Focus on Inclusivity:
o Aims to bring two crore students into the education fold,
regardless of socio-economic and cultural backgrounds.
2. New Structural Framework (5+3+3+4):
o Replaces the old 10+2 system, emphasizing the foundational years
of learning.
o Integrates early childhood education with primary schools by
collaborating with Anganwadi centers.
3. Emphasis on Early Childhood Education:
o Recommends a National Curricular and Pedagogical Framework
for Early Childhood Care and Education, to be developed by
NCERT, for children up to age 8.
4. Foundational Literacy and Numeracy:
o Proposes a National Mission on Foundational Literacy and
Numeracy to ensure basic skills in language and mathematics.
5. Flexibility in Higher Education:
o Undergraduate courses have a flexible duration (exit options after
1, 2, or 3 years with certifications).
6. Three-Language Policy:
 o Promotes multilingualism by encouraging states to teach a
modern Indian language, English, and a regional language.
7. Focus on Holistic Learning:
o Combines vocational, academic, and extracurricular activities into
a balanced curriculum.

Drawbacks of NEP 2020

1. Implementation Challenges:
o The success of the three-language policy depends on the
availability of skilled teachers, which remains a significant
challenge in many regions.
2. Impact on Higher Education:
o The flexible undergraduate program may lead to students
dropping out after shorter durations, affecting the viability of full
undergraduate courses.
3. Dependence on Infrastructure:
o Effective implementation requires significant improvements in
infrastructure, which may be challenging in rural and
underdeveloped areas.

Conclusion
The NEP 2020 is a progressive policy that envisions a transformed education
system in India. Despite certain challenges, its focus on inclusivity,
foundational learning, flexibility, and holistic development reflects a forward-
thinking approach. If implemented effectively, the policy has the potential to
drive significant growth and prepare the Indian educational sector to meet
global standards.