National Education Policies & Historical Commissions
The evolution of formal education policy in India spans historic colonial milestones and comprehensive post-independence commissions. The landmark Kothari Commission (1964–66), chaired by Dr. D.S. Kothari, recommended the 10+2+3 pattern, universal primary education, the three-language formula, and allocating 6 percent of national income to education, leading to the First National Policy on Education in 1968. The 1986 Policy under Rajiv Gandhi emphasized equalization of educational opportunities and launched Operation Blackboard. In July 2020, based on the Dr. K. Kasturirangan Committee report, the Government of India introduced the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020), transitioning from the 10+2 structure to a 5+3+3+4 design spanning foundational, preparatory, middle, and secondary stages of schooling.
Key Concepts & Examination Highlights
- Wood's Despatch of 1854 is celebrated as the 'Magna Carta of English Education in India', establishing universities in Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras (1857).
- The Kothari Commission (1964–66) introduced the 10+2+3 educational framework and recommended spending 6% of GDP on education.
- NEP 2020 replaced the 10+2 school structure with the 5+3+3+4 pedagogical structure covering ages 3 to 18.
- The National Education Policy 2020 was drafted by a committee headed by former ISRO Chairman Dr. K. Kasturirangan.