Time Frame for NEP Implementation: Understanding the Roadmap for Education Reform in India

The NEP implementation process in India is a long-term, phased reform strategy aimed at transforming the entire education system—from early childhood to higher education. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, approved by the Union Cabinet in July 2020, introduces sweeping changes that require careful planning, funding, and coordination between central and state governments.

The policy lays out an ambitious vision, but the actual implementation is spread out over a 15- to 20-year timeline, with short-term (1–3 years), medium-term (3–5 years), and long-term (10+ years) goals.

NEP Implementation Timeline: Phase-by-Phase Breakdown

1. Short-Term Goals (2020–2023)

In the initial three years, the focus was on laying the foundation for reform.

• Restructuring the school system to the new 5+3+3+4 model
  

• Introduction of Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN) under the NIPUN Bharat Mission
  
  

• Release of NCERT’s National Curriculum Framework (NCF) drafts
  
  

• Digitization through platforms like DIKSHA, SWAYAM, and Academic Bank of Credits (ABC)
  

• Development of new teacher training frameworks and EdTech policies
  
  

• Encouraging use of mother tongue as the medium of instruction till Grade 5

By 2023, many of these components were initiated across central institutions and early-adopting states.

2. Medium-Term Goals (2023–2026)

This phase focuses on scaling the reforms and rolling out major structural shifts.

• Full adoption of ABC system and integration with DigiLocker for credit tracking
  
  

• Implementation of multiple exit and entry options in higher education
  
  

• Introduction of the 4-year multidisciplinary undergraduate degree in more universities
  
  

• Rollout of coding, vocational education, and skill development from Grade 6
  
  

• National rollout of standardized assessments through PARAKH
  

• Expansion of teacher capacity-building programs with tech tools and digital modules

By 2026, the government aims to cover 100% of institutions under the revised credit and degree framework, and train educators under the National Professional Standards for Teachers (NPST).

3. Long-Term Goals (2026–2040)

The final phase will consolidate progress, evaluate results, and build a sustainable system.

• Universal access to quality Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) for children aged 3–6
  
  

• Full transformation of school and college curriculums as per updated NCF
  

• Establishment of Higher Education Commission of India (HECI) replacing UGC and AICTE
  
  

• Expansion of multilingual education, including Indian languages in higher education
  
  

• Achieving gross enrollment ratio (GER) targets:

  • 50% in higher education by 2035

  • 100% in school education by 2030
    

• Strong emphasis on research and innovation via the National Research Foundation (NRF)
  
  

• Widespread use of EdTech, AI, and adaptive learning platforms across urban and rural India

Monitoring and Funding for NEP Implementation

The Ministry of Education has set up a National Steering Committee (NSC) led by eminent academics and experts to guide NEP implementation. States also have individual State Curriculum and Pedagogy Committees and task forces to ensure policy customization and delivery.

Funding is expected to increase to 6% of GDP, as recommended in the policy. Public–private partnerships, digital infrastructure investments, and international collaboration are key parts of the long-term funding model.

NEP Implementation: How TruScholar Contributes to the Ecosystem

TruScholar plays a vital role in the digital enablement of NEP implementation by offering blockchain-secured academic credentials that align with NEP’s goals of transparency, portability, and flexibility.

How TruScholar Accelerates NEP Execution:

• Blockchain-based Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) compatibility
  
  

• Support for micro-credentials and short-term programs
  

• Verifiable, tamper-proof digital certificates for institutions
  
  

• Seamless integration with DigiLocker and NAD
  

• Easy access to credentials for employers and global institutions
  
  

TruScholar helps institutions deliver on NEP’s promises—particularly in areas like modular learning, digital recordkeeping, and outcome-based education. Explore use cases and blogs on the TruScholar platform.

The NEP implementation roadmap is ambitious but strategic. By following a phased, realistic approach, India is building a more inclusive, digitally empowered, and globally relevant education system. For students, educators, and institutions alike, the policy offers a dynamic framework that will shape the future of learning for decades to come.