Engaging Gandhi in National Education Policy(NEP) 2020

Abstract Gandhian philosophy resonates in much acclaimed New Education Policy (NEP)2020 which speaks of rootedness of education system in Indian ethos not only in thought, but also in spirit, intellect, and deeds. NEP 2020 has harbingered a new beginning for Indian education system in 21st century, pragmatically emphasising upon the greater need to develop ‘foundational capacity’ for literacy and numeracy and also ‘cognitive capacities’ to ensure a holistic development of an individual. It exhibits a paradigmatic shift from inputs to outcomes, giving a great blow to Macaulayian scheme which catered to the colonial interest. The focus on outcome-based education with integration of value-based education, vocational education, employability and entrepreneurial skills in students finds traces of Gandhian thought and philosophy of education. Gandhi still remains alive through his doctrines and principles of social and collective transformation across the globe. The uniqueness of Gandhiji lies in intensification of self and affirmation /avowal of faith in the human spirit as well as spiritual orientation and practices in everyday matters. And this brings the focus of paper which tries to engage Gandhi and his doctrines in the framework of NEP2020 and find its relevance in contemporary times.