Title: National educational policy 2020 and beyond: paving the way for a more inclusive higher education landscape in India

Authors: Taniya Malik

Addresses: Maharaja Surajmal Institute, New Delhi, India; Affiliated to: GGSIPU, India

Abstract: The fundamental rights guaranteed by the Indian constitution, particularly Articles 14, 15, and 16, act as repositories for notions of equality and inclusion. Despite the constitutional guarantee, the higher education system in India is often criticised for its lack of inclusivity and diversity. Empirical surveys have pointed out that learning barriers in HEIs exist because of region-socio-economic-gender-based considerations. This paper identifies the various factors perpetuating the exclusion of marginalised communities in HEIs in India. After that, the paper critically analyses various statutory and policy instruments, including the national education policy (NEP) 2020, adopted by the Indian Government to foster inclusivity and diversity in HEIs. The paper also examines the role of the Indian judiciary in promoting inclusivity in HEIs. The paper further recommends that implementation 'in letter and spirit' of the NEP 2020 can transform the higher education landscape and break down learning barriers in HEIs.

Keywords: fostering inclusivity and diversity; national education policy; NEP; 2020; higher educational institutions; HEIs; marginalised communities; learning barriers.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHRCS.2025.149274

International Journal of Human Rights and Constitutional Studies, 2025 Vol.12 No.4, pp.358 - 374

Received: 03 Jan 2024
Accepted: 13 Feb 2024
Published online: 22 Oct 2025 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article