Revolutionizing Higher Education Regulation Under NEP 2020

The National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) continues to spark dynamic conversations about the future of learning in India. While much discussion has focused on school-level reforms, the real game-changer could very well be the transformation of higher education regulation. From Multidisciplinary Education to the Academic Bank of Credits, NEP 2020 lays out a roadmap that redefines how institutions will operate and grow in the decades to come.

In this blog, we at Edunova delve deeper into the key highlights of higher education reforms—covering the ambitious goals set for NEP 2020 Universities, the structure of the new Higher Education Commission of India (HECI), and the mechanisms ensuring transparency and self-governance.

1. Higher Education: A Bold Overhaul

The NEP 2020 envisions a future-ready system, rooted in India’s heritage yet aligned with global standards. This section of the policy not only promotes learner-centric approaches but also underscores autonomy and quality assurance at the institutional level.

2. Multidisciplinary Universities: The Heart of NEP 2020

2.1 Reimagining the Indian HEI Landscape

One of the most transformative elements of the new policy is the mandate for all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to adopt multidisciplinary structures by 2030, and fully implement them by 2040. This shift is rooted in the belief that broader academic exposure fosters innovative thinking, critical analysis, and creativity.

“By 2040, all higher education institutions (HEIs) shall aim to become multidisciplinary institutions…”

The plan is for universities and colleges to feature vibrant ecosystems—offering programs across the arts, sciences, technology, vocational studies, and more—thereby equipping students for the complexities of the modern world.

3. HEI Categories and Autonomy

3.1 Diverse Institutions, Common Quality

Under NEP 2020, HEIs will be broadly categorized into:

1. Research-Intensive Universities
2. Teaching-Intensive Universities
3. Autonomous Degree-Granting Colleges

While their primary focus areas may differ, all institutions must adhere to high teaching standards and robust governance norms. Autonomy is the cornerstone: each institution can formulate curricula, innovate in pedagogy, and eventually transition from being affiliated colleges to fully independent universities.

This structural reorganization aims to break free from a one-size-fits-all model, enabling each institution to excel within its core strengths—be that research, teaching, or specialized skill development.

4. Flexible Degree Options: Choice and Innovation

4.1 Catering to Diverse Learners

From 3-year to 4-year undergraduate programs, 1-year to 2-year Masters degrees, and integrated 5-year courses, NEP 2020 offers unprecedented flexibility. This variety accommodates students’ unique career aspirations—be it early entry into the workforce or an extended period of study culminating in research-focused careers.

Moreover, the policy discontinues the traditional M.Phil. program, making way for more robust, research-intensive Ph.D. tracks. This change reflects a commitment to evolving academic pathways and preparing students to meet cutting-edge research demands.

5. MERUs and Global Collaboration: Raising the Bar

5.1 Establishing Model Institutions

To spearhead the wave of Multidisciplinary Education and high-caliber research, NEP 2020 calls for setting up Multidisciplinary Education and Research Universities (MERUs). These institutions will serve as exemplars of quality, nurturing academic ecosystems that blend applied knowledge, theoretical foundations, and industry collaboration.

5.2 Welcoming Foreign Universities

In line with global standards, India will encourage reputable foreign universities to establish local campuses. This international collaboration facilitates student and faculty exchange programs, joint research ventures, and broader cultural understanding—strengthening India’s position as a globally recognized education hub.

6. Vocational Education in HEIs: Bridging the Skill Gap

6.1 Mainstreaming Employability

A remarkable innovation under NEP 2020 is the mainstreaming of vocational education within university degrees. Once relegated to separate “vocational tracks,” skill-based courses will now be integrated into conventional undergraduate programs, ensuring that students gain tangible, market-ready competencies alongside theoretical knowledge.

This shift aligns perfectly with the Academic Bank of Credits approach, where students can seamlessly accumulate and transfer credits across varying disciplines—fostering lifelong learning and continuous skill upgrading.

7. Governance and Regulation

7.1 The Higher Education Commission of India (HECI): A New Regulatory Architecture

In an effort to improve transparency and accountability, the policy introduces the Higher Education Commission of India (HECI), comprised of four distinct verticals:

1. National Higher Education Regulatory Council (NHERC): Regulates institutions on academic and administrative parameters.
2. National Accreditation Council (NAC): Oversees accreditation based on predefined standards.
3. Higher Education Grants Council (HEGC): Manages funding and grants allocation.
4. General Education Council (GEC): Sets academic standards, including learning outcomes and credit frameworks.

By separating these domains, NEP 2020 aims to eliminate conflicts of interest, maintain quality checks, and streamline funding and accreditation processes. Public and private universities will be measured with the same yardstick, leveling the playing field in terms of regulations and compliance.

7.2 Self-Governance and Leadership: Empowering Institutions from Within

Moving away from excessive central oversight, institutions will gradually adopt a self-governing model. This involves:

• Establishing transparent fee structures and scholarship frameworks.
• Setting up leadership teams—such as Boards of Governors—comprised of eminent academics, industry experts, and community representatives.
• Adopting graded autonomy, allowing high-performing institutions more freedom to innovate and expand.

These steps democratize decision-making, encourage local problem-solving, and promote a culture of excellence and innovation at the institutional level.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Higher Education

The NEP 2020 heralds a transformative era for higher education in India. By mandating Multidisciplinary Education, introducing the Academic Bank of Credits, restructuring governance through HECI, and embracing global alliances, the policy prepares Indian universities to compete at the highest global level—without compromising on local values and traditions.

At Edunova, we believe these sweeping reforms represent a golden opportunity for educational institutions, educators, and students alike. Whether it’s adopting cutting-edge pedagogies, integrating vocational training, or pursuing interdisciplinary research, the path forward is both challenging and exciting. The key now lies in implementation—turning policy frameworks into on-ground realities that truly revolutionize how India learns, teaches, and innovates.

Interested in discovering how your institution can leverage NEP 2020 for sustainable growth and global impact?

Visit our Edunova Blog for more insights, resources, and professional guidance on making the most of India’s new education blueprint. Let’s build a future-ready higher education ecosystem—together!