Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan recently stated that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is actively working to stop the commercialisation of education in India. According to him, the new policy aims to create an affordable, inclusive, and quality-driven education system. This includes regulating fee structures, improving access to government institutions, and cracking down on unethical private practices that turn education into a profit-making business.
I chose to write about this topic because the rising cost of education has become a serious issue for students and parents across India. Many families today are forced to spend beyond their limits to afford quality schooling or higher education. While private institutions play an important role, unchecked fees and commercial motives have made education feel like a luxury instead of a right. The NEP 2020, launched as a major reform after decades, promised to change this. Now, with the Education Minister himself reiterating this goal, it’s important to look at what exactly the policy is doing to protect students and restore fairness in our education system.
What Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Said
At a recent event, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said that NEP 2020 has been designed to make education more “equitable and accessible” by reducing the grip of profit-oriented models. He pointed out that the policy encourages public institutions, restricts unjustified fee hikes, and pushes for value-based education over commercial setups.
He also mentioned that the policy is being implemented step by step, keeping in mind the diversity of India’s population and the need to provide opportunities to every section of society.
Key Steps NEP 2020 Has Taken to Curb Commercialisation
Here are some of the specific measures NEP 2020 has included to stop the misuse of the education system for commercial gain:
- Fee Regulation: NEP recommends a transparent mechanism to regulate fees in both schools and colleges. Institutions cannot hike fees randomly without justifying the costs.
- Common Norms for Private Institutions: The policy talks about creating a level playing field, where private colleges and schools must meet quality standards, not just charge more for brand value.
- Focus on Government Education: NEP encourages investment in government schools and public universities so that quality education is not limited to those who can afford expensive fees.
- Push for Not-for-Profit Model: The policy clearly supports educational institutions working as not-for-profit bodies, especially in higher education.
- National Accreditation Council: A centralised body to ensure institutions meet academic and ethical standards, discouraging fake or low-quality colleges that only aim to earn money.
Why This Is So Important Right Now
India has seen a sharp increase in private schools and coaching centres over the last two decades. While some of them provide quality education, many operate with a pure business motive. Parents are pressured into paying heavy fees in the hope of a better future for their children.
At the same time, government schools in many areas still lack infrastructure or teachers, forcing families to turn to private options even if they cannot afford it. This creates a divide where only those with money can access the best opportunities.
By focusing on improving public institutions and holding private ones accountable, NEP is trying to bridge this gap.
What Still Needs Work
While the policy has been praised, the real impact will depend on how strongly it is implemented. In many states, fee regulation is still weak, and private players find loopholes. Also, awareness among parents and students about their rights is limited.
More transparency, stronger monitoring, and regular audits are required. State governments also need to support NEP’s goals with clear rules and political will.
