Universal Access to Education under NEP 2020: Implications for Human Capital Formation in India

Education is widely recognized as a critical investment in human capital, contributing directly to economic growth, productivity enhancement, and social development. India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 represents a comprehensive reform aimed at achieving universal access, equity, and quality in education. This paper examines NEP 2020 from the perspective of human capital theory, focusing on how universal access to education can strengthen India’s human capital base. The study adopts a descriptive and analytical methodology based on secondary data from government reports, policy documents, and existing literature. It analyses the role of access, equity, skill development, and institutional reforms in shaping human capital outcomes. The paper also highlights key challenges such as financing constraints, regional disparities, and the digital divide that may affect effective implementation. The study concludes that while NEP 2020 has strong potential to enhance human capital formation, sustained public investment and efficient policy execution are essential for realizing long-term economic benefits.