NEP 2020 has democratized opportunities, empowering youth from towns like J&K’s Doda: Jitendra Singh

New Delhi, India Jul 11, 2026 ALN: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, emphasized the transformative impact of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 during a recent conference in Doda, Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that the policy has democratized aptitude-based learning, allowing students from Tier-2 and Tier-3 towns to compete on equal footing with their peers in metropolitan areas. This shift is particularly significant in a country like India, where educational opportunities have historically been unevenly distributed, often favoring urban centers over rural and semi-urban regions.

Speaking at a two-day hybrid conference organized by Government Degree College, Doda, on the theme "Implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 in Jammu & Kashmir: Challenges of Inclusion, Equity and Accessibility," Singh noted that NEP 2020 has fundamentally altered India’s educational landscape. The policy shifts the focus from traditional degree attainment to skills, innovation, and entrepreneurship, reflecting a global trend in education that prioritizes practical skills and real-world applications over rote learning and theoretical knowledge.

“The NEP has replaced rigid academic pathways with greater flexibility, enabling students to select subjects based on their interests rather than societal expectations,” Singh remarked. He further stated, “A degree is no longer a trophy, and employment no longer means only a government job,” highlighting the policy's role in preparing young Indians for the evolving knowledge economy. This change is crucial as the job market increasingly demands diverse skill sets and adaptability, rather than adherence to traditional career paths.

Congratulating Government Degree College, Doda, and its Principal, Dr. Javed Iqbal, for hosting the conference, Singh praised the institution as one of the oldest and most distinguished centers of higher education in the region. He recalled how students from remote areas previously traveled long distances to access higher education due to a lack of institutions, asserting that Doda has the potential to become a significant educational hub. The establishment of more educational institutions in such areas not only enhances access to quality education but also contributes to local economic development.

Singh pointed out that the multidisciplinary approach encouraged by the NEP has made classrooms more dynamic. He cited an example of a literature professor who expressed joy at science students voluntarily attending literature classes, showcasing the policy's positive influence on student engagement. This cross-disciplinary interaction fosters a more holistic educational experience, encouraging creativity and critical thinking among students.

Highlighting the growth of India's startup ecosystem, Singh reported a remarkable increase in the number of startups, from nearly 350 in 2014 to over 230,000 today, positioning India as the world’s third-largest startup hub. He noted that more than half of these startups have emerged from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, indicating that innovation is no longer limited to metropolitan centers. This statistic underscores the potential for economic growth and job creation in regions that have traditionally been overlooked in favor of urban areas.

Singh also discussed the success of the Lavender Revolution under the CSIR Aroma Mission, which began with a small lavender cultivation project in Bhaderwah. This initiative has expanded across Doda and other Himalayan states, creating new livelihood opportunities and bolstering the rural economy. The Lavender Revolution exemplifies how targeted agricultural initiatives can lead to sustainable development and empower local communities.

He urged Doda to carve out a unique identity in innovation and entrepreneurship, proposing that Government Degree College establish incubation support for Himalayan products and aroma-based enterprises in collaboration with the Ministry of AYUSH and CSIR’s Aroma Mission. Such initiatives could foster wellness products, tourism, and value-added rural enterprises while generating employment. By promoting local industries and products, the region can enhance its economic resilience and reduce dependency on external markets.

Furthermore, Singh highlighted the importance of developing scientific infrastructure in the region, including a Himalayan laboratory, and encouraged educational institutions to connect students with research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Establishing such facilities would not only enhance the quality of research but also attract talent and investment to the region, creating a vibrant ecosystem for scientific inquiry and technological advancement.

He also stressed the need for colleges to familiarize students with government initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana and PM Vishwakarma Yojana, asserting that increased awareness would empower young people to transform their knowledge and traditional skills into sustainable livelihoods. These schemes aim to provide financial support and resources to aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas, thereby fostering a culture of entrepreneurship.

Regarding technology's role in education, Singh noted that improved digital connectivity has eliminated geographical barriers, enabling students from remote areas to access quality learning resources and prepare for competitive exams without relocating. The advent of online learning platforms and digital resources has made education more accessible, allowing students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their academic goals.

Describing the current era as one of the most promising for India’s youth, Singh expressed confidence that the generation pursuing education today will lead the nation during its centenary year of Independence in 2047. He urged educators to mentor students with a long-term vision, nurturing them into innovators, entrepreneurs, and responsible citizens who can contribute to the vision of a developed India. This forward-looking perspective emphasizes the importance of equipping young people with not just academic knowledge but also the skills and mindset necessary for leadership in a rapidly changing world.

In conclusion, the NEP 2020 represents a significant shift in India's educational paradigm, aiming to create a more inclusive, equitable, and accessible system. By focusing on skills and entrepreneurship, it seeks to empower youth from all regions, particularly those in Tier-2 and Tier-3 towns, to thrive in the global economy. The implications of this policy extend beyond education; they encompass economic development, social mobility, and the overall progress of the nation. As stakeholders in education and government work together to implement these changes, the hope is to foster a generation that is not only well-educated but also innovative and capable of driving India's growth in the years to come.