The education sector in India has seen some major reforms and investments under the Modi government over the last few years. From the implementation of the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 to improvements in digital learning and access to scholarships, the Centre has taken measurable steps to expand and modernise the education system. Whether it’s upgrading infrastructure in government schools or launching schemes like PM SHRI and SWAYAM, the government has made education a central pillar of national development.

I decided to write about this because when we talk about government performance, education often gets pushed aside by topics like jobs, inflation, or defence. But education is the foundation of everything. It shapes future citizens, prepares the workforce, and influences every area of national progress. The reason this matters now more than ever is because India has the largest population of youth in the world. So it’s essential that we evaluate how well we’re educating them, especially when elections and policy decisions are based on past performance. Let’s look at why this government’s work in education stands out.

Focus on New Education Policy (NEP) 2020

One of the biggest achievements of the Modi government is the rollout of the NEP 2020. It is India’s first major education policy reform in over three decades and aims to make the system more holistic, flexible, and aligned with global standards. Key highlights include:

• Replacing the 10+2 structure with a 5+3+3+4 system
• Introducing foundational literacy and numeracy as core goals
• Emphasis on mother tongue/regional language as the medium of instruction till Class 5
• Promoting multidisciplinary learning and exit-entry options in higher education
• Setting up National Education Technology Forum to boost digital learning

These changes mark a shift from rote-based education to skill-based and critical thinking-focused learning, which is the need of the hour.

Increased Funding and Infrastructure Boost

Under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan and PM SHRI scheme, the government has pumped in significant funding to improve school infrastructure. Smart classrooms, improved sanitation, better sports facilities, and digital tools are being provided to lakhs of students across government schools.

The number of Eklavya Model Residential Schools for tribal children has also increased. At the higher education level, the government launched initiatives like the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) and increased the number of IITs, IIITs, and IIMs.

According to official data, the education budget allocation rose from ₹65,867 crore in 2014-15 to over ₹1.12 lakh crore in 2023-24, showing the government’s priority in this sector.

Digital Push and Pandemic Response

The Modi government’s handling of the education sector during COVID-19 deserves credit. While schools were shut, digital platforms like DIKSHA, ePathshala, SWAYAM, and PM eVIDYA kept learning going for millions of students. TV and radio were also used to reach those without internet.

The BharatNet project also supported better internet access in rural schools. The push for coding in schools, AI exposure in classrooms, and support for ed-tech startups helped modernise education even in challenging times.

Empowering Teachers and Skilling Youth

Teacher training has been strengthened through the National Initiative for School Heads and Teachers Holistic Advancement (NISHTHA). NEP also introduced a common regulatory framework and teacher eligibility norms to improve quality across institutions.

Schemes like Skill India, PMKVY, and the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) have helped equip students with industry-relevant skills. Higher education is also seeing more research support through initiatives like SPARC and STARS.

Focus on Inclusion and Scholarships

The government has rolled out several scholarship schemes targeting girls, SC/ST/OBC students, and those from low-income families. The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative, Kanya Shiksha Pravesh Utsav, and gender inclusion under NEP have improved enrolment of girls in schools.

Moreover, efforts have been made to bridge regional and social divides by focusing on education in aspirational districts and opening central universities in underserved regions.