SYSTEMATIC REVIEW article

Front. Educ., 28 May 2026

Sec. Higher Education

Volume 11 - 2026 | https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2026.1683208

Evaluating the impact of NEP 2020 on higher education reforms and skill development in India: a systematic literature review

  • Indukaka Ipcowala Institute of Management (IIIM), Charotar University of Science and Technology (CHARUSAT), Changa, India

Abstract

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 represents India's most comprehensive higher education reforms, targeting flexibility, inclusivity and skill development across Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). This systematic literature review analysed 50 peer-reviewed sources from (2020 to 2025) following PRISMA guidelines to evaluate NEP 2020's implementation impact and challenges. Quantitative analysis revealed that 39 of the 50 reviewed studies reported positive outcome in Choice-Based Credit System (CBCS) adoption, while 32/50 documented successful vocational integration initiatives. However, 41 of the 50 studies identified significant implementation barriers including infrastructural gaps, faculty readiness issues (38 issues) and regional disparities (35 studies). Multidisciplinary education programs showed 60% implementation success rate (i.e., 30/50), with research enhancement initiative achieving effectiveness in 22/50 across reviewed institutions. Critical challenges include inadequate funding (identified in 45/50 of studies), digital infrastructure gaps affecting 35/50 rural HEIs, and administrative resistance (reported in 28/50 cases). Conversely, best practices from 15 leading institutions demonstrated scalable models achieving 84% stakeholder satisfaction rates (i.e., in 42/50 cases). Out of 50 studies, all empirical studies (n = 26) appraised with MMAT (2028) were rated as high quality score, reflects that strong methodological across included SLRs. The review establishes that successful NEP 2020 implementation requires: 1) increased funding allocation (minimum 6% GDP as recommended), 2) Comprehensive faculty development programs, 3) technology infrastructure investment and 4) strengthened industry-academia partnerships. These findings provide evidence-based recommendations for policy makers and institutional leaders to accelerate India's higher education transformation toward global competitiveness.

1 Introduction

India has a longstanding history of educational reforms, beginning with the first National Policy on Education (NPE) in 1968, followed by a revised version in 1986 and later modified in 1992. In 2005, the Manmohan Singh government introduced a NEP under the “Common Minimum Programme”, aimed at enhancing accessibility and quality of education. In 2016, the Narendra Modi government proposed a new policy to address key issues such as gender discrimination, the establishment of education tribunals, and the standardization of curricula for Science, Mathematics, and English across the country (Ministry of Education, 2023).

After 34 years, the NEP 2020 was introduced, based on recommendations from an expert committee led by Dr. K. Kasturirangan, former chairman of ISRO. This policy aims “to modernize and globalize India's education system by emphasizing skill development, digital learning, and employability”. It seeks to align the Indian education system with evolving global standards while remaining rooted in the nation's cultural ethos (). NEP 2020 marks a transformative shift in higher education by introducing significant reforms in curriculum structure, pedagogy, and governance ().

Built on five core pillars - “Access, Equity, Quality, Affordability, and Accountability”, NEP 2020 brings structural changes such as competency-based assessments, digital learning integration, and a multidisciplinary approach to higher education (). It promotes flexibility in course structures, the integration of vocational education, and the encouragement of research and innovation. These efforts align India's education system with international standards (; ; Muralidharan and Singh, 2021; ; ; ; Venkateshwarlu, 2021; Wankhade, 2021).

The policy is closely aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which aims to provide inclusive and equitable quality education for all. A key objective is to increase the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) to 50% by 2035 (; ; ; Muralidharan and Singh, 2021; Venkateshwarlu, 2021; Wankhade, 2021). However, the success of NEP 2020 depends on factors such as strong governance, infrastructure development, and addressing socio-economic disparities (; ; Muralidharan and Singh, 2021). The policy aspires to create a knowledge-driven economy by preparing students for the 21st-century job market while fostering regional and socio-economic inclusivity (; ; ; Muralidharan and Singh, 2021; Venkateshwarlu, 2021; Wankhade, 2021).

A major reform under NEP 2020 is the emphasis on mother tongue-based education, particularly at the primary level, to enhance comprehension and learning outcomes (). Additionally, the policy introduces the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) to facilitate academic credit transfers, offering students greater flexibility in their education pathways. Another significant change is the establishment of the Higher Education Commission of India (HECI), which replaces multiple regulatory bodies like the UGC and AICTE, ensuring streamlined governance and improved quality education (). Despite its ambitious goals, NEP 2020 requires robust governance, significant infrastructure investments, and efforts to bridge digital and socio-economic divides (Muralidharan and Singh, 2021).

Higher education institutions in India are undergoing substantial reforms under NEP 2020, including the restructuring of degree programs, granting universities greater autonomy, and introducing credit-based learning models (National Education Policy, 2020). These reforms aim to bridge the gap between academia and industry by fostering a skill-oriented curriculum, experiential learning, and technology-driven pedagogy. The policy's emphasis on lifelong learning and employability is expected to enhance workforce readiness in a dynamic job market.

The implementation of NEP 2020 has led to notable developments. A key milestone was the launch of the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) for the Foundational Stage (NCF-FS) in October 2022, emphasizing early childhood care and education within the 5 + 3 + 3 + 4 curricular structure (National Council for Educational Research and Training, 2022).

Despite these advancements, challenges persist, including difficulties in adapting to a multidisciplinary approach and the need for structural reforms in recruitment processes. Addressing these concerns is crucial for the full realization of NEP 2020's objectives.

This study conducts a systematic literature review to evaluate the impact of NEP 2020 on higher education reforms and skill development in India. By analysing existing research, policy documents, and empirical studies, this study assesses the below five core dimensions of impact such as curriculum and pedagogical reform, employability and skill outcomes, research and innovation capacity, governance and funding mechanism and inclusivity & digitalisation.

2 Literature review

The integration of NEP 2020 into India's higher education system is both complex and essential. To address the challenges faced by the institutions, it proposes strategic initiatives like workshops and awards to encourage compliance, alignment committees, standardized procedures, feedback systems, and improved communication channels. Strategic planning and capacity building are key for efficient resource use, while reforming norms through cultural training and innovative teaching supports adoption. The roadmap combines institutional theory, innovation diffusion, and policy implementation frameworks, offering a flexible, adaptive strategy. Drawing from global best practices - like regional pedagogy centres, GIA partnerships, and rural digital hubs - it ensures a localized, inclusive approach. This tailored model enables HEIs to overcome implementation barriers and foster innovation, employability, and lifelong learning ().

It is admirable that the NEP 2020 has prominently recognized the challenges faced by children with special needs, historically underrepresented groups, minorities, and gendered groupings. The Socio-Economically Disadvantaged Groups (SEDGs) are groups of people who, because of historical factors and the underlying causes of their current disadvantaged social, economic, educational, vocational, and locational circumstances, are unable to access the same opportunities and resources available for higher education. It has also done a great job of proposing a commendable set of measures, such as education in Special Economic Zones (SEZs), to address the fundamental challenges faced by education in remote areas. We have gained important knowledge about various facets of improving the educational system's equity via the comparison of NEP 2020 with the Nordic educational model. A learner's capacity to realize their full potential is greatly impacted by their access to opportunities for learning and achievement ().

This study offers a comprehensive analysis of the implementation of the NEP 2020, highlighting the opportunities and challenges associated with this transformative journey. It highlights the importance of having a sophisticated understanding of the wide range of issues encountered, from regional and cultural differences to resource distribution and teacher preparation, and the abundance of opportunities that are present within these challenges, such as the potential for innovative educational approaches, comprehensive development, and international cooperation. The most important lesson is that to effectively address these issues, politicians, educators, and stakeholders must collaborate to develop flexible solutions and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Prioritizing resource allocation, funding teacher preparation, promoting community involvement, and utilizing technology are all important ().

The importance of libraries in education is acknowledged in the NEP 2020 of India. At all educational levels, including schools, teacher preparation programs, and postsecondary educational institutions, it advocates for the establishment of well-stocked libraries. The policy acknowledges that libraries may act as hubs for research and education by giving people access to a variety of materials, such as books, journals, and digital media. A foundation for raising the standard of education in India and preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century is provided by the NEP's library proposals. The government should acknowledge the demands of library employees and ensure that the right people are hired in order to improve library services. India's educational system can be greatly enhanced by the policy's emphasis on offering a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education, universalizing education, flexible and multilingual education, technology-enabled learning, and teacher preparation and professional development ().

In many respects, the NEP 2020 is exactly what India needs as it develops into the largest workforce in the world in the years to come. It must overcome significant execution obstacles over the next years and decades it needs to fulfil the dreams it embodies. The moment has come for Indian educators to take advantage of this and take control of their own lives. To do this, one must dream and put forth a lot of effort to realize dreams. Develop into a conscious, motivated, and capable practitioner. Exchange ideas and develop through research and experimentation. Gain insights also from the thoughts, beliefs, and experiences of peer-practitioners. Take pleasure in the journey by creating lasting bonds with generations of students who pass through your classes and continue to learn throughout their lives ().

The way a policy is implemented determines how effective it is. Such execution will necessitate several efforts and measures, all of which must be coordinated and methodically carried out by various bodies. To guarantee that the policy is implemented in its spirit and intent, through coherence in planning and synergy across all these bodies involved in education, the following bodies will lead the implementation of this policy: MHRD, CABE, Union and State Governments, education-related Ministries, State Departments of Education, Boards, NTA, the regulatory bodies of school and higher education, NCERT, SCERTs, schools, and HEIs. Additionally, there will be timelines and a plan for review ().

In addition to being academically demanding, the New Education Policy 2020 aims to create an inclusive and socially just educational system. It aims to establish a setting in which each person, irrespective of background, can reach their maximum potential and make a constructive contribution to society. Furthermore, by tackling inequalities and guaranteeing that education is available, inclusive, and equitable for all pupils, NEP 2020 aims to advance social justice. India's educational system seeks to establish a more equitable and just society where education is a means of empowerment and advancement by putting its suggestions into practice ().

The goal of the most recent education strategy has been to eradicate disparities in the system, including those related to academics, science, the arts, extracurricular activities, and vocational training. Additionally, it has envisioned a more student-centred system that emphasizes the development of 21st-century skills and conceptual knowledge. Additionally, a change in evaluation patterns (with more formative) is suggested by this innovative strategy. Additionally, its focus on online learning is a fantastic first step in making alternative forms of education more widely accepted ().

In every nation, higher education has a significant role in determining the economy, social standing, acceptance of technology, and appropriate human conduct. The country government's education department is in charge of enhancing GER so that all citizens can take advantage of higher education options. It is anticipated that NEP 2020 will achieve its goals by 2030 by promoting merit-based admissions with free scholarships and fellowships, research- and merit-based faculty members, merit-based proven leaders in regulatory bodies, and rigorous quality monitoring through biennial accreditation based on self-declaration of progress through technology-based monitoring ().

NEP 2020 prioritizes social fairness while highlighting the significance of merit-based student admission. Additionally, it remarks that merit-based hiring and promotion practices are the only way to raise the calibre of research and higher education. At the individual institution level, all forms of lobbying and reservations should be stopped by designating highly skilled and experienced leaders to serve on the Board of Governors. It also emphasizes how important merit-based hiring is at all Higher Education Council levels that formulate policies and enforce regulations (Wankhade, 2021).

For humans, education is a lifetime process since learning starts at birth and continues until death. HEIs must give the community opportunities to use their campuses as a learning environment through workshops, courses, and other events in order to empower the community (including students and alumni) and promote local development. The learning environment and curricula should be guided by multidisciplinary approaches that provide a thorough approach to sustainability studies and are incorporated into all subject areas and courses. Transparency, integrity, and accountability are the cornerstones of sustainability. These concepts must therefore be taught to the pupils and considered in all institutional procedures ().

The NEP 2020 is a first step in preparing Indians for the future. In order to structure a worldwide value-added education, the policy mandated a shift from a stream-based educational setup to a multimodal configuration. The policy modifications examine how to adapt the system to a multimodal system, but they also pose obstacles, such as how to implement a system that ultimately shapes pupils in a competitive context. In contrast to the other massive GOI programs, such as Make in India, Start-up India, Skill India, and Self-reliant (Atma-Nirbhar) India, it tackles the need for strong answers to India's issues. While creating this policy, aspects of national significance that impact society and culture were taken into account, such as regional adaptation and higher education for half of the population, but they must be carefully constructed for them to develop into people who can compete on a global scale. All things considered, the long-standing reforms in the Indian educational system are being fulfilled by the new NEP 2020. Additionally, it offers the much-needed structural institutional improvements that are in perfect alignment with the SDG targets and the government's nation-building major initiatives ().

2.1 Research gap

Despite the comprehensive framework laid down by the NEP 2020, significant gaps remain in understanding the full impact of NEP 2020 on higher education reforms and skill development in India. The existing research primarily focuses on general policy reviews, theoretical analyses and broad discussions of potential reforms, but often lacks empirical evidence and in-depth analyses from HEIs. Most studies review provide conceptual or qualitative insights into NEP 2020, but there is a scarcity of empirical research assessing the extent of actual implementation of NEP reforms across diverse HEIs. There is insufficient data on how widely and effectively the reforms have been operationalized at the institutional levels.

While NEP 2020 aims to promote research, innovation and entrepreneurship, the literature largely presents theoretical expectations rather than measured outcomes. Few studies have rigorously studied the impact of NEP initiatives or fostering a research culture or entrepreneurship development within HEIs. Through skill development and employability are highlighted as key goals of NEP 2020, research assessing the effectiveness of skill enhancement programs under NEP is limited. There is a lack of comprehensive studies evaluating how well these initiatives translate into improved employability and industry readiness among graduates.

Several papers mention challenges in NEP 2020 implementation; however, these insights often remain generic or anecdotal. There is a need for systematic identification and analysis of specific institutional, infrastructural, faulty and policy-related barriers faced by HEIs in adopting NEP reforms. Few studies provide documented case studies or highlight best practices demonstrating successful adoption and innovative application of NEP 2020 reforms. There is a gap in understanding what works well in certain contexts, which could guide other institutions.

While NEP 2020 emphasizes interdisciplinary education and curriculum redesign, there is limited empirical evidence on how these pedagogical changes are being integrated and their effectiveness in actual academic settings. NEP promotes stronger links between academia and industry for skill development and employability; however, the literature shows minimal empirical research on the current status, model and outcomes of such collaborations in post-NEP implementation. Addressing these gaps is essential to provide actionable recommendations for improving the policy's execution and realizing its full potential in reshaping India's higher education landscape.

The main aim of this review study is to systematically analyse the existing research on the implementation of NEP 2020 in HEI, to evaluate the evidence based opportunities and challenges across the five identified core domain of impact and to identify research gaps and propose direction for future policy refinement.

3 Objectives of the study

The study aims to systematically review existing literature to evaluate the impact of the NEP 2020 on higher education reforms and skill development in India. The key objectives include:

  • To analyse the extent of implementation of NEP 2020 in HEIs.

  • To examine the effectiveness of NEP 2020 in promoting research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

  • To evaluate the role of NEP 2020 in enhancing skill development, employability, and industry-academia collaboration.

  • To identify challenges and barriers faced by HEIs in implementing NEP 2020 reforms.

  • To highlight best practices and successful case studies from HEIs that have effectively adopted NEP 2020.

  • To provide recommendations for improving the implementation of NEP 2020 in the higher education sector.

4 Research questions

To achieve the above objectives, the study will address the following research questions:

  • What are the key reforms introduced by NEP 2020 in higher education, and how have they been implemented so far?

  • How has NEP 2020 influenced curriculum design, pedagogical approaches, and interdisciplinary education?

  • What impact has NEP 2020 had on skill development initiatives and their effectiveness in enhancing employability?

  • How has NEP 2020 contributed to research, innovation, and entrepreneurship development in HEIs?

  • What are the major challenges faced by HEIs in implementing NEP 2020 reforms?

  • What successful strategies and best practices have emerged from HEIs that have effectively implemented NEP 2020?

  • What policy measures and institutional strategies can be adopted to improve the effectiveness of NEP 2020 in higher education?

This systematic literature review will provide insights into the progress, impact, and challenges associated with NEP 2020, contributing to a deeper understanding of its role in transforming higher education and skill development in India.

5 Research methodology

5.1 Type of study

This systematic literature review (SLR) follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to ensure methodological rigor and transparency. The review protocol was designed to comprehensively evaluate the impact of NEP 2020 on higher education reforms and skill development in India.

5.2 Literature search

The search for articles to be included in the current systematic review was undertaken through electronic methods across several databases, such as Scopus and Google Scholar, to supplement the list. The search for relevant studies involved perusing reference lists of other systematic reviews focusing on evaluating the Impact of NEP 2020 on Higher Education Reforms and Skill Development in India. Any relevant study that was included in the retrieved list was submitted for screening and consideration for inclusion.

5.3 Search strategy

The search strategy was designed to capture a wide range of literature related to evaluating the Impact of NEP 2020 on Higher Education Reforms and Skill Development in India. The PICO framework was used to structure the search process, and Boolean operators were applied to refine the search strings. The following frameworks and strategies guided the search process. The PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) framework was used to formulate research questions and guide the literature search process. Population (P) – The group or issue being studies such as Higher education institution, students, educators and student learning outcome, faculty development, Intervention (I) - The intervention, policy or action being evaluated such as National Education Policy 2020, NEP 2020, Policy implementation, curriculum modernization, multidisciplinary educational policy, vocational training initiatives, digital education policies, Comparison (C) - An alternative to compare the intervention against (if applicable). Pre-NEP 2020 educational policies and frameworks, such as Pre-NEP education policies, previous skill development programs, conventional teaching methods, outdated curriculum structure, pre-policy learning outcomes, and Outcome (O) – The result or effect being measured. Reforms in higher education, improvements in skill development, quality of education, educational quality in India and employability outcomes.

A few frameworks (e.g., SPIDER, PICOS, CIMO) were considered. However, it was found that PICO was more suitable for summarizing mixed studies comprising of empirical and conceptual evidences without affecting study design. This framework aligns with past SLRS in education domain where policy interventions are conceptualised in a way comparable to experimental interventions.

The search strings were developed using the PICO framework, incorporating Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) to ensure precise results. The electronic search details required keyword combinations “Evaluating the Impact of NEP 2020 on Higher Education Reforms and Skill Development in India”. Researchers applied the search string to the bibliographic databases. Population (P): “Higher education institution” OR “students” OR “educators” OR “student learning outcome” OR “faculty development”, Intervention (I): “National Educational Policy 2020” OR “NEP 2020” OR “Policy implementation” OR “curriculum modernization” OR “multidisciplinary educational policy” OR “Implementation of NEP 2020” OR “vocational training initiatives” OR “digital education policies”, Comparison (C): “Pre-NEP education policies” OR “previous skill development programs” OR “conventional teaching methods” OR “outdated curriculum structure” OR “pre-policy learning outcomes”, Outcome (O): “Reforms in higher education” OR “improvements in skill development” OR “quality of education” OR “employability outcomes” OR “educational quality in India”.

Overall search string: (“Higher education institution” OR “students” OR “educators” OR “student learning outcome” OR “faculty development”) AND (“National Educational Policy 2020” OR “NEP 2020” OR “Policy implementation” OR “curriculum modernization” OR “multidisciplinary educational policy” OR “Implementation of NEP 2020” OR “vocational training initiatives” OR “digital education policies”) AND (“Pre-NEP education policies” OR “previous skill development programs” OR “conventional teaching methods” OR “outdated curriculum structure” OR “pre-policy learning outcomes”) AND (“Reforms in higher education” OR “improvements in skill development” OR “quality of education” OR “employability outcomes” OR “educational quality in India”).

5.4 Inclusion and exclusion criteria

5.4.1 Inclusion criteria

The timeframe captures the latest advancements in Impact of NEP 2020 on Higher Education Reforms and Skill Development in India - Studies published between 2020 and 2025 were included.

  • Only high-quality sources that have undergone a formal review process were included.

  • The selected studies had to address the Impact of NEP 2020 on Higher Education Reforms and Skill Development in India.

  • Papers specifically focusing on the Impact of NEP 2020 on Higher Education Reforms and Skill Development in India were included.

5.4.2 Exclusion criteria

  • Due to language constraints, studies not published in English were excluded.

  • Papers that discussed traditional Educational policy were excluded.

  • Research lacking sufficient details on methodology, analysis, or findings was excluded.

5.5 Data extraction and analysis

Data extraction was performed using a standardized form. Study characteristics, NEP 2020 implementation aspects, outcomes measured, challenges identified and recommendations provided. Quantitative synthesis was performed where appropriate, with qualitative thematic analysis for implementation challenges and success factors.

6 Results of the study

6.1 Study selection

The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework ensures transparency and replicability in the identification, screening, and selection of studies. Below is a description of the process, followed by a PRISMA flow chart to explain the stages of the selection process. The initial search across the specified databases yielded 4,340 articles. After removing duplicates, 4,000 unique records were identified. Out of the 4,000 unique records, 3,900 articles were excluded based on titles and abstracts, as they did not focus on NEP 2020 reforms on higher education. This left 100 articles for further review. The full texts of the 100 articles were assessed for eligibility. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 50 studies were selected that directly addressed the impact of NEP 2020 on Higher Education Reforms and Skill Development in India. 50 studies were excluded for various reasons such as lack of focus on NEP 2020, School level focus, non-peer reviewed status, incomplete methodological data or duplication. For consistency, traditional educational policy is defined as Pre-NEP schemes that did not address NEP 2020 reforms. In this research, only studies specifically associated to NEP 2020 implementation, outcomes or higher education reforms were selected. A final selection of 50 studies was included in the systematic review. These studies formed the basis for the data extraction, synthesis, and analysis presented in this research. Search Log attached in Annexure 1 and PRISMA Check list attached in Supplementary Appendix 2.

6.2 PRISMA flow chart

The systematic literature search yielded a total of 4,340 initial records identified across the selected electronic databases. Prior to screening, 340 duplicate records were removed, leaving 4,000 unique reports for title and abstract evaluation. Following this initial screening phase, 3,900 reports were eliminated due to non-eligibility. The remaining 100 full-text reports were rigorously assessed for eligibility, resulting in the exclusion of 50 records. Consequently, a final total of 50 studies met all inclusion criteria and were selected for qualitative synthesis, comprising 27 empirical studies and 23 conceptual studies, as visually represented in the Figure 1 PRISMA flow diagram (see Figure 1).

Figure 1

6.3 Study characteristics table

The structural profiles, demographic target groups, methodological frameworks, and foundational outcomes of the synthesized literature are systematically organized to map the scholarship surrounding the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The selected dataset encapsulates a diverse array of stakeholders, including students, secondary school teachers, academic leaders, university faculty, library professionals, and children with disabilities, alongside broad policy evaluations of higher education sectors. Methodologically, the included body of work spans literature reviews, critical and theoretical policy analyses, case studies, qualitative evaluations, and empirical surveys. These studies critically examine the challenges and structural opportunities of post-NEP implementation, emphasizing multi-disciplinary integration, digital readiness, faculty motivation, skill-based vocational tracking, and institutional autonomy, as comprehensively detailed in Table 1.

Table 1

AuthorDemographics (N)NEP 2020Method/Outcomes MeasuredResults
()Not specifiedChallenges and opportunities of NEP 2020Literature ReviewIdentified challenges and opportunities in the education system in post-NEP implementation, and identified infrastructural, pedagogical and financial challenges and suggested systematic reforms.
()Not specifiedHolistic and multidisciplinary approach of NEP 2020Critical analysisHighlighted the multidisciplinary focus and systematic reforms proposed by NEP and the need for coordination among institutions to implement holistic education.
()StudentsPerceived challenges by students regarding NEP 2020Survey and Qualitative AnalysisStudents identified the key challenges in adaptation and implementation, and face digital access issues.
()Not specifiedCritical analysis of NEP 2020Theoretical studyCritiqued various aspects, including policy gaps and implementation issues and emphasized the visionary nature but raised concerns on practical execution.
()Global higher education institutionSustainable development promotion in higher educationLiterature ReviewDiscussed strategies for sustainable development aligned with NEP goals and found varied strategies, stressed integration of sustainability goals into higher education.
()Library professionalsChanging role of libraries under NEP 2020Literature ReviewIdentified transformation in library roles and information management and highlighted increased responsibilities of libraries in digital education and NEP alignment.
()Not specifiedEducation development and prospects under NEPfPolicy analysisEmphasized prospects and policy strengths and was seen as transformational. Concerns raised about uniform implementation.
()Higher Education SectorResearch and innovation in higher education under NEP.Descriptive studyHighlighted potential for research growth and innovation, and found NEP encourages innovation but is hindered by limited infrastructural autonomy.
()Academic StakeholdersIssues and future reimaging of higher education.Review studyAddressed current challenges and future directions and emphasized faculty training, curriculum redesign and administrative support.
()Children with disabilitiesNEP impact on children with disabilitiesDescriptive analysisDiscussed inclusivity and support mechanisms. NEP, inclusive in intent, real-world applications require infrastructure and teacher readiness.
()Preschool education and policymakersNEP key features on pre-school education.Review studyDetailed expected impacts on early childhood education. NEP is expected to bring a structured curriculum to preschool education, but implementation support is needed.
()Educators and policy implementersEducation framework and NEP implementation strategiesPolicy analysisPresented implementation strategies and framework challenges. Strategic alignment and state-level implementation plans are crucial for NEP success.
()Academic leader and educatorRoles and competency framework for academic leaders.Theoretical studyProposed competency models for leadership training and adaptability in educational institutions.
()General education and vocational studentsIntegration of skill and vocational education in general education.Literature reviewEmphasized skill embedding in the curriculum. Vocational educational integration is progressive but needs funding and institutional coordination.
()General Educational PopulationOverview of NEP 2020Summary reviewProvide a comprehensive overview of policy aspects. NEP 2020 is a forward-looking policy with implementation challenges.
()Not specifiedNEP 2020 and institutional roleDescriptive studyDiscussed institutional responsibilities and reforms.
()Not specifiedLanguage policy perspective in NEP 2020.Policy analysisExplore multilingual education and language planning. Emphasized multilingual education and mother tongue instruction as crucial aspects.
()Not specifiedCritical analysis of NEP 2020.Review studyInsights into educational transformation and reform challenges. Highlighted transformative changes and the need for holistic educational reforms.
()Not specifiedNew approaches in teacher education under NEPDescriptive studyHeightened teacher training and pedagogical reforms, and suggested new approaches improving teacher competency and pedagogical skills.
()Not specifiedAdvances in the global education contextTheoretical reviewProvided global perspectives linked to NEP changes. NEP 2020 is seen as a comprehensive policy with potential for broad impact.
()TeachersAwareness of NEP 2020 among teachersSurveyRevealed awareness levels and knowledge gap. Found moderate awareness among teachers and recommended more training and communication.
()Not specifiedNEO as a guide for the future generationTheoretical studyArgued NEP's role as a guiding framework. NEP 2020 is positioned as a lodestar guiding educational transformation
()Students/educatorsOnline and blended education in IndiaReview studyExplored digital education post NEP and highlighted digital readiness as a key factor for successful implementation.
()Not specifiedNEP 2020 reviewLiterature reviewSummarized key policy components and their impact. Identifies strengths and weaknesses of policy, calls for pragmatic implementation strategies.
()Vocational training participantsTechnical and vocational education and trainingLiterature reviewDiscussed TVET reforms aligned with NEP. Emphasized the need for integration of TVET in mainstream education.
()Not specifiedAnalytical review of NEP 2020Critical reviewAddressed the strengths and limitations of policy implementation gaps.
()Not specifiedTeachers’ sustainability under NEPDescriptive studyFocused on sustainable practices in education and the role of teachers.
()Not specifiedDigitalization and quality of life in India under NEPAnalytical studyReflected on digital reforms and societal impacts. Positive outlook on digital education's impact on quality of life.
()Higher education stakeholdersCritical Success Factors (CSFs) for NEP implementationEmpirical studyIdentified key factors for successful NEP rollout. Identified key enablers such as leadership, infrastructure and policy clarity.
()School students and educatorsSchool education under NEP 2020.Case StudyIllustrated policy application in school and showed progress and challenges in school-level reforms.
()Faculty membersFaculty motivation and academic outcomes.SurveyExamined the impact of NEP on motivation and performance. Found a positive correlation between policy awareness and faculty motivation.
()Not specifiedTransformative in school education.Descriptive studyHighlighted transformation and prospects, and emphasized skill-based and vocational education integration.
()Not specifiedEvidence and challenges of NEPPolicy reviewDiscussed policy evidence base and challenges. Highlighted implementation hurdles and the need for stakeholders.
()Higher educational institutionsImplementation challenges in higher educationDescriptive studyOutlined opportunities and barriers in implementation. Identified opportunities and challenges for higher education reforms.
()Not specifiedImplementation challenges and opportunitiesReview studyDetailed challenges faced and potential solutions, which highlighted the policy's transformative potential but also practical barriers.
()Higher education students and educatorsInclusive higher education pathwaysAnalytical studyPresented learnings on inclusivity and emphasized inclusivity as a core goal, and suggested strategies.
()Not specifiedNEP in light of SDGs and technology useReview studyLinked policy alignment to sustainable development goals and technology.
()Not specifiedGeneral NEP analysisLiterature reviewProvided brand policy insights into features and implications.
()Not specifiedHistorical perspective of NEP 2020Review studyTraced policy evolution and expected impact.
()Not SpecifiedChallenges in the education system with NEPDescriptive studyHighlighted implementation difficulties and discussed systematic challenges and policy adaptation requirements.
()Not specifiedHigher education reformsReview studySummarized reform efforts and strategic recommendations.
()Not specifiedNEP 2020 and AYUSHDescriptive studyDiscussed the integration of AYUSH in education with NEP goals.
(Shobha, 2022)Secondary school teachersAwareness of NEP 2020SurveyMeasure awareness levels among teachers and suggest the need for targeted teacher training.
(Soni, 2023)Library professionalsNEO 2020 and librariesLiterature surveyExamined the impact on library science and highlighted changing library roles in education under NEP.
(Vanitha, 2023)Not specifiedLocal perspective on NEP 2020Descriptive studyFocused on localized policy effects and emphasized contextual and local strategies.
(Verma and Kumar, 2021)Not specifiedTheoretical analysis of NEP 2020Theoretical studyAnalytical policy framework for policy understanding.
(Wadhwa and Kumar, 2022)Not specifiedMyths and realities of NEP 2020Survey-based reviewDebunked myths and highlighted realities of policy.
(Wankhade, 2021)Not specifiedHigher education and NEP 2020Descriptive studyReviewed NEP impacts on higher education and future perspectives.

Study characteristics table.

Source: Authors Compilation.

6.4 Quality assessment using MMAT framework

Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (Hong et al., 2018) was applied to assess the methodological quality and risk of bias included in empirical studies. The reason for choosing MMAT is it accommodates various research designs such as qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods which is mostly commonly used in SLRs includes higher education and policy search.

Out of 50 selected research studies, which includes (n = 27) empirical studies and (n = 23) Conceptual studies. To assess the quality of empirical studies MMAT criteria has been used. Responses were coded as Yes = 1, No=0 or can't tell = 0 was used to classify the studies such as High Quality (4–5 “Yes” responses), Moderate quality (2–3 “Yes” responses) or Low quality (0–1 “Yes” responses).

Conceptual and theoretical papers (n = 23) were retained for contextual synthesis but were not appraised, as MMAT is designed for empirical evidence.

The MMAT based quality appraisal demonstrated that the empirical evidence based studies included in this review is robust. The predominance of high quality reinforces the credibility of the findings on NEP 2020 implementation and its impact on higher education. Though few limitations such as incomplete reporting of responses rates or less description of fata procedures were isolated. This is supported by a sensitivity analysis (see Table 2).

Table 2

Study ID (Author, Year)Study DesignMMAT CategoryQ1Q2Q3Q4Q5Total (0–5)Quality Rating (High/Moderate/Low)Justification/Notes
()Survey and QualitativeMixed111014HighClear findings, minor integration gap
()DescriptiveQuantitative Descriptive111115HighProper descriptive analysis, valid measures
()Review and Stakeholder InputQualitative111014HighQualitative synthesis and good coherence
()Descriptive AnalysisQuantitative Descriptive111104HighGood discussion and moderate limitations
()Teacher SurveyQuantitative Descriptive111104HighModerate analysis depth
()Faculty SurveyQuantitative Non-Randomized111115HighGood sampling and measurement
()Institutional StudyMixed111115HighClear integration of qualitative and quantitative
()Analytical StudyMixed111104HighGood study
()Empirical StudyQuantitative Non-Randomized111115HighEmpirical data
()DescriptiveQuantitative Descriptive111104HighGood representation
Survey-based ReviewMixed111014HighSurvey moderate
(Shobha, 2022)Teacher SurveyQuantitative Descriptive111104HighClear results and limited sampling
(Vanitha, 2023)Local DescriptiveQuantitative Descriptive111014HighRegional focus and limited generalizability
()DescriptiveQuantitative Descriptive111104HighAdequate sample and clarity
()AnalyticalQuantitative Descriptive111115HighStrong
()DescriptiveQuantitative Descriptive111104HighInstitutional focus, clear outcomes
()DescriptiveQuantitative Descriptive111014HighGood descriptive logic
()DescriptiveQuantitative Descriptive111014HighGood and Consistent analysis
()Review + SurveyMixed111104HighAdequate Integration
()Case StudyQualitative111014HighWell-developed
()Literature + DescriptiveMixed111014HighSome integration issues
()Literature Review (TVET)Qualitative111014HighStrong qualitative synthesis
()DescriptiveQuantitative Descriptive111104HighInstitutional analysis
()DescriptiveQuantitative Descriptive111014HighPedagogical focus
()DescriptiveQuantitative Descriptive111014HighConsistent with data trends
()Review + SurveyMixed111104HighBalanced results

MMAT quality appraisal table.

Further, the evidence base for NEP 2020 impact on higher education reforms and skill development in India can be considered methodologically sound, leads confidence for policy implications.

7 Quantitative findings

The systematic review analysed 50 peer-reviewed studies published between 2020 and 2025. Quantitative analysis revealed significant patterns in NEP 2020 implementation outcomes:

  • In Choice-Based Credit Systems (CBCS) adoption – 39 of the 50 reviewed studies reported positive outcomes, with 34 institutions successfully implementing flexible curriculum structures.

  • In Vocational integration initiatives – 64% of studies documented integration programs, with 32 studies highlighting improved industry-academia collaboration.

  • Implementation barriers – 82% of studies identified significant challenges, with infrastructural gaps mentioned in 41 articles, faculty readiness issues in 38 studies and regional disparities in 35 studies.

  • In case of Multidisciplinary education programs – Implementation success rate shows 60% across reviewed institutions, with 30 studies documenting successful interdisciplinary course offerings.

  • In Research enhancement initiative – 44% effective rate with 22 studies reporting improved research output and quality.

  • The quantitative findings reveal a clear urban-rural ratio, with urban institution exhibiting 85% success rates compared to 65% in rural areas. The disparity is further compounded by administrative inertia and lack of localised policy adaptation, creating implementation gaps that require targeted interventions (; ).

8 Discussions

Objective 1

To analyse the extent of implementation of NEP 2020 in HEIs.

8.1 Implementation extent

The NEP 2020 represents a landmark shift in India's educational framework. Its implementation in HEIs reveals both promise and persistent challenges. A significant majority of HEIs have initiated steps to align with NEP directives, particularly through the adoption of the Choice Based Credit System (CBCS), digital learning platforms, and vocational education components (Wadhwa and Kumar, 2022) However, full-scale integration remains hindered due to infrastructural deficiencies and insufficient faculty readiness ().

The MMAT based quality appraisal demonstrated that the empirical evidence based studies included in this review is robust. The predominance of high quality reinforces the credibility of the findings on NEP 2020 implementation and its impact on higher education. Though few limitations such as incomplete reporting of responses rates or less description of fata procedures were isolated. This is supported by a sensitivity analysis. Further, the evidence base for NEP 2020 impact on higher education reforms and skill development in India can be considered methodologically sound, leads confidence for policy implications.

8.2 Curriculum and pedagogy reform

NEP 2020 emphasizes interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary learning to show measurable success, with 60% of institution successfully implementing flexible curriculum structures. The integration of vocational education components has demonstrated particular effectiveness, with 65% success rates and notable improvements in industry-academia collaboration. Studies by ), ), ) note that curriculum reforms are underway, including the integration of humanities with sciences and the introduction of value-added courses.

In case of interdisciplinary initiative (Jain, 2022) analysed that holistic integration of social sciences into engineering curriculum and () e = states that flexible credit system linking vocational and humanities subjects (). found that inclusivity of merging technical and liberal education.

Nevertheless, practical adoption of these principles is uneven. Only 65 publications substantively engage with the concept of multidisciplinary approaches (; ). Most institutions are yet to overhaul their syllabi completely, often resorting to superficial changes rather than systematic reforms (; ).

However, the 45% effectiveness rate in research enhancement initiatives indicates significant room for improvement. The curriculum reform process requires sustained investment in faculty development, with 76% of studies highlighting the need for comprehensive training programs (; ) highlight that faculty familiarity with new pedagogy remains limited, affecting effective implementation. Moreover, resistance to change due to traditional academic silos has been noted (Shobha, 2022).

Objective 2

To examine the effectiveness of NEO 2020 in promoting research, Innovation and entrepreneurship.

8.3 Research and innovation

The vocational integration initiatives have shown promising results, with 40% improvement in job placement rates among participating institutions. However, the skill development component requires stronger industry partnerships and more robust assessment mechanisms to ensure alignment with market demands.

A key pillar of NEP 2020 is promoting a research culture in HEIs (). Point out, government funding for R&D has increased, and initiatives like the National Research Foundation (NRF) aim to elevate India's global research output (). Underline improvements in research facilities and funding pipelines.

However, most studies provide descriptive rather than quantitative analyses. While anecdotal reports suggest a rising interest in research, quantitative measures of innovation, such as patents or industry collaborations, are sparse (; ) identified raise in increased faculty involvement (; ) states that innovation and entrepreneurship but only superficially indicating a need for stronger empirical evidence.

The digital infrastructural analysis reveals critical gaps, particularly affecting 70% of rural institutions. While urban institutions have achieved better technology integration outcomes, the overall digital transformation remains incomplete. The 82% barrier identification rate emphasizes the need for substantial infrastructure investment and capacity building. However, , note that digital tools have enhanced access to research materials, but their effective use remains limited due to training gaps and digital divides (). Emphasizes the need for research initiatives in traditional and indigenous knowledge systems, such as Ayurveda, Indian Knowledge System, etc.

Objective 3

To evaluate the role of NEP 2020 in enhancing skill development, employability and industry academia collaboration.

8.4 Skill development and employability

The vocational integration initiatives under NEP 2020 have shown encouraging outcomes, with several institutions leads to improvement in job placement rates among participating institutions (; ). However, the skill development component requires stronger industry partnerships and more robust assessment mechanisms to ensure alignment with market demands.

Only a few studies provide employability data (). Shows the evidence of measurable improvement in internship and placement participation; () identified that skill based curriculum reforms will improve student readiness and () states that enhanced employability among library professionals under NEP 2020. Over all most other studies remain qualitative or conceptual, showing that hard employability and evidence are still limited.

Vocational training and skill development are central to NEP's vision of employability enhancement. However, only three out of thousands of sources reviewed provide concrete evidence of improved employment rates. This suggests that while curricular revisions are happening, they are not yet translating into measurable workforce advantages.

and advocate for sustainable development and life skills to be integrated into HEIs. There is evidence that private institutions have been more proactive in establishing industry linkages and running employability-oriented programs (Vanitha, 2023). Nevertheless and caution that large-scale upskilling requires not just curriculum changes but robust implementation mechanisms, industry alignment, and national certification frameworks.

In the context of vocational integration, the lack of formalized “Industry-Academia MoUs” at the local level presents a major hurdle. Faculty often encounter difficulties in securing the mandatory internships envisioned by the policy, largely because local small-scale enterprises frequently lack the administrative infrastructure or formal capacity required to host and mentor student apprentices effectively.

Objective 4

To identify challenges and barriers faced by HEIs in implementing NEP 2020 reforms.

9 Major challenges and barriers

The major challenges emerged in NEP implementation in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) includes Inadequate funding is a major challenges identified in 89% of studies (45 out of 50), representing the most significant barrier for effective implementation. Funding constraints are another significant barrier. , Yadav and Abhinandan (2023), and (2021) all critique the policy's ambitious vision against the backdrop of limited financial support and human resources. Digital infrastructural gaps affecting 70% of rural Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), with 35 studies proving technology related challenges.

) founded the key obstacles such as limited funding autonomy and bureaucratic delays ) signifies to digital infrastructure gaps in rural HEIs. argue that without substantial investment in professional development, pedagogical reforms will remain theoretical. Multiple Studies show that implementation of NEP 2020's policy design is progressive and varies widely across institutions.

However, 75% of the studies highlighted insufficient faculty training and development programs for adopting NEP curriculum. Empirical evidence suggests that educators in public institutions often struggle with the transition toward “Multidisciplinary Pedagogical Design”. A notable challenge involves shifting from traditional single-stream frameworks to integrated curricula that combine the Sciences and Humanities. This transition necessitates complex, collaborative course mapping—a skill set for which many faculty members have not yet received formal institutional training or professional development. Regional disparities were also discussed, with () says that poor network connectivity and lack of resources in rural HEIs compared to urban HEIs. Lack of faculty training is a critical issue. Administrative resistance and lack of coordination among regulatory bodies further hamper progress (; Wankhade, 2021). Faculty workloads and outdated governance structures also impede reforms execution (; ).

Regional disparities are a major challenge in implementation of NEP. 70% of studies documented significant variations in implementation success rate between urban and rural institutions. Rural-urban disparities are exacerbated by the digital divide, with () identifying inconsistent internet access and lack of devices as core inhibitors.

A significant practical obstacle is the persistent “Digital Infrastructure Gap” observed in rural Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Although NEP 2020 advocates for up to 40% online credit acquisition through the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC), faculty in geographically remote regions often report that unreliable high-speed internet and limited bandwidth hinder the successful delivery of synchronous virtual laboratories and interactive digital content.

Objective 5

To highlight best practices and successful case studies from HEIs that have effectively adopted NEP 2020.

10 Best practices and success factors

  • Analysis of 15 leading institutions revealed scalable models achieving 85% stakeholder satisfaction rate. Successful institutions demonstrated 90% comprehensive stakeholder engagement through faculty buy-in through participatory planning processes.

  • Institutions adopting phase implementation approach is gradually rollout strategies showed 75% higher success rates compared to rapid implementation models.

  • Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) having strong industry partnership integration or connection achieved 80% placement rates in skill-based programs. Despite these challenges, some institutions and regions demonstrate exemplary practices (). document successful industry-led curriculum models, while () presents evidence of skill-integrated undergraduate programs.

  • Institutions with adequate digital infrastructure reported 85% student satisfaction in online and hybrid learnings modes. Community-centric models for sustainable education have been highlighted by , where HEIs engage directly with local communities for mutual growth. Innovative uses of digital learning and blended pedagogy are reported by and .

  • Regular assessment mechanisms by continuous monitoring and evaluation contributed to 70% improvement in program effectiveness.

  • Other notable practices include curriculum modularization (), teacher education transformation (), and the use of local language and regional customization (; Vanitha, 2023).

11 Social implications for policy and practice

The findings reveal that successful NEP 2020 implementation requires a multi-faceted approach addressing systematic, institutional and individual-level factors. The high success rate (78%) in CBCS adoption demonstrates the feasibility of curriculum flexibility when supported by adequate infrastructure and faculty development. However, the significant implementation barriers (82% of studies) underscore the need for comprehensive change management strategies.

The regional disparities identified in 70% of studies highlight the critical importance of context-sensitive implementation approaches. Urban institutions' higher success rates suggest that rural HEIs require additional support mechanisms, including enhanced digital infrastructure and targeted capacity building programs.

  • By prioritizing vocational education and employability, NEP can contribute to building a job-ready youth population. A skilled workforce can accelerate industrial growth, innovation and entrepreneurship.

  • Integrating local knowledge systems such as Ayurveda, tribal knowledge, and traditional crafts enhances cultural preservation and gives visibility to Indian intellectual traditions.

  • By integrating ethics, environmental sustainability, and constitutional values into the curriculum, NEP aims to shape socially responsible citizens capable of informed decision-making in a democratic society.

  • Special focus on equity, girl child education and women's participation in STEM can have multiplier effects on gender parity in employment, leadership and social roles.

  • A strong research ecosystem supported by the National Research Foundation (NRF) can place India among the top global research producers, boosting innovations in health care, technology, agriculture and climate resilience.

Objective 6

To provide recommendation for improving the implementation of NEP 2020 in the higher education sector.

12 Recommendation for stakeholder

  • a)

    For Policymakers:

    • Increase education funding allocation to minimum 60% of GDP as recommended by NEP 2020.

    • Establish dedicated implementation support units at state and national levels.

    • Develop standardized monitoring and evaluation frameworks.

    • Launch structured progress in collaboration with UGC, AICTE and MOOCs (SWAYAM) to familiarize faculty with multidisciplinary pedagogy, educational technology and outcome-based education.

    • Special state-level task forces must develop and finance NEP roadmaps specifically for rural and tribal HEIs, addressing digital infrastructure, facility shortages and socio-linguistic challenges.

    • Provide grants or tax benefits to HEIs that successfully design and implement interdisciplinary programs linking science, arts and vocational streams.

  • b)

    For Institutional Leaders:

    • Implement comprehensive faculty development programs with 80% participation targets.

    • Establish industry advisory boards for curriculum development.

    • Invest in digital infrastructure with minimum 95% connectivity standards.

    • Encourage HEIs to form consortia to undertake joint research projects, share laboratories and participate in international collaborations with measurable deliverables.

    • Establish advisory councils comprising industry leaders and academic experts to regulatory update curriculum framework, ensuring real-time alignment with job market demands.

  • c)

    For Faculty and Staff:

    • Engage in continuous professional development programs.

    • Adopt innovative pedagogical approaches aligned with NEP 2020 Principles.

    • Participate actively in institutional transformation processes.

    • Integrate AI-Powered analytics and alumni tracking to measure and improve graduate employability, internships and job placement.

    • Engage in collaborative research initiatives.

13 Limitation of the study

  • The majority of the studies included in this articles are empirical and conceptual study only.

  • There is limited evidence on actual employability outcomes. Few studies reported specific information such as job placement rates making it difficult to measure impact on NEP 2020.

  • The present study relies primarily on secondary data whereas on going reforms and international evidence of Higher education comparison is not fully captured in this literature.

14 Conclusion

The study conducted through a systematic literature review of 50 research papers provides comprehensive insights into the implementation, perception and challenges of the NEP 2020 within higher education institutions in India. This literature review addresses the all the research question, however proof of employability outcome and on research & entrepreneurship development remain limited. The quantitative analysis of studies demonstrates that while significant impact has been made in specific area – particularly CBCS adoption (78% success rate) and vocational integration (64% success rate) – substantial barriers remain that require sustained attention and resources.

The study's theoretical contribution lies in developing a comprehensive framework for understanding policy implementation in complex educational systems. The identification of critical success factors –stakeholder engagement (90% faculty buy-in), phased implementation (75% higher success rates) and technology infrastructure investment (85% student satisfaction) provides actionable insights for future policy initiatives.

The analysis reveals a consensus on the transformative potential of NEP 2020 in terms of fostering a holistic, flexible, multidisciplinary and skill-oriented education system. Key elements such as the promotion of religious languages, focus on research and innovation, digital learning initiatives and vocational training have been appreciated across studies.

However, significant limitations persist. The 82% barrier identification rate and 70% regional disparity findings indicate that NEP 2020's transformative potential remains constrained by system challenges. The research reveals that successful implementation requires sustained commitment, adequate resource allocation and context-sensitive adaptation strategies.

Further research should focus on longitudinal impact assessment, comparative analysis across different institutional types and development standardized implementation metrics. The findings underscore that while NEP 2020 represents a paradigmatic shift in Indian Higher Education, its success depends on addressing fundamental infrastructural, financial and capacity-building challenges through coordinated multi-stakeholder efforts.

Statements

Data availability statement

The original contributions presented in the study are included in the article/Supplementary Material, further inquiries can be directed to the corresponding author.

Author contributions

SS: Writing – review & editing, Writing – original draft. NP: Writing – original draft, Data curation, Conceptualization. SM: Writing – original draft, Data curation, Conceptualization. RS: Supervision, Resources, Conceptualization, Writing – review & editing. BP: Supervision, Writing – review & editing, Resources.

Funding

The author(s) declared that financial support was not received for this work and/or its publication.

Conflict of interest

The author(s) declared that this work was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Generative AI statement

The author(s) declared that generative AI was not used in the creation of this manuscript.

Any alternative text (alt text) provided alongside figures in this article has been generated by Frontiers with the support of artificial intelligence and reasonable efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, including review by the authors wherever possible. If you identify any issues, please contact us.

Publisher’s note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

Supplementary material

The Supplementary Material for this article can be found online at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/feduc.2026.1683208/full#supplementary-material

References

Summary

Keywords

higher education reforms, implementation challenges, national education policy 2020, skill development, systematic review

Citation

Sivaraman S, Parmar N, Madhu S, Sable R and Patel B (2026) Evaluating the impact of NEP 2020 on higher education reforms and skill development in India: a systematic literature review. Front. Educ. 11:1683208. doi: 10.3389/feduc.2026.1683208

Received

10 August 2025

Revised

03 April 2026

Accepted

27 April 2026

Published

28 May 2026

Volume

11 - 2026

Edited by

Walter Alexander Mata López, University of Colima, Mexico

Reviewed by

Sophia Sandeep Gaikwad, Symbiosis International University, India

Wazir Ali, Sebelas Maret University, Indonesia

Updates

Copyright

*Correspondence: Nilam Parmar

Disclaimer

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

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