New Direction in Education: Major Changes in the Government's 2026 Education Policy

The Government of India has announced several significant changes in the education sector under the 2026 Education Policy (EAP-26). The main objective of this policy is to strengthen digital education, inclusive curricula, and teacher training. According to the policy, internet connectivity will be provided in all government primary schools by 2027, and basic science and mathematics curricula will be made mandatory from 2028. Additionally, new provisions are included to establish uniform education standards in rural and urban areas. This step is regarded as a crucial move toward reducing disparities in education and enhancing quality.

After the previous Education Policy of 2019, India developed a framework aligned with international standards for numerous reforms in the education sector. The 2026 policy, taking past experiences into account, places particular emphasis on digital access and teacher qualifications in rural areas.

One of the key points of the new policy is the “Digital Learning Platform,” which will be implemented in all government schools by 2028. Moreover, there is a provision for 1:1 laptop distribution in every classroom, giving students the opportunity for personalized study.

The policy also brings a new direction for teachers. From 2027, all government teachers must undergo mandatory digital literacy training, with a duration set at three months. In addition, the policy proposes a 15% increase in teachers’ salaries.

For students, the policy will establish special teaching units to provide additional support to students with special needs under an inclusive curriculum. By 2029, mental health support services will be made available in all schools.

Despite these changes, several challenges have emerged in implementing the policy. Lack of electricity and internet in rural areas, as well as the varied digital skills among teachers, could hinder successful implementation.

Nevertheless, the government has initiated various public‑private partnerships to ensure efficient resource distribution. An improvement of 20% in education quality is expected by 2030, aligning with national development goals.

Thus, the 2026 Education Policy emerges as a significant step toward making the education system more inclusive and digital.