Implementation Challenges of NEP 2020 in the Context of Assam: A Critical Analysis

The National Education Policy 2020 was approved by the Union Cabinet of India on 28 July 2020 after a gap of more than three decades since the introduction of the National Policy on Education 1986.The formulation of the new policy involved extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including teachers, educationists, policymakers, and community members.Feedback was collected from nearly 2.5 lakh village-level stakeholders and several national-level committees through consultations and workshops conducted over a period of more than 50 months.The policy provides a comprehensive framework covering all levels of education, from primary schooling to higher education and vocational training, with the aim of transforming the Indian education system by the year 2040.Despite its ambitious vision and inclusive development process, the effective implementation of the policy remains a major concern.This study attempts to examine the key challenges in implementing NEP 2020 in the context of Assam.The paper focuses on issues related to infrastructure, teacher training, language policy, curriculum restructuring, and administrative preparedness.The study is based on both primary and secondary data sources to analyze the preparedness and practical difficulties faced by educational institutions and stakeholders.The findings highlight the gap between policy objectives and ground realities, emphasizing the need for strategic planning, adequate resources, and institutional support for the successful implementation of NEP 2020 in Assam.