FROM POLICY TO PRACTICE: AN INTEGRATED ANALYSIS OF ECCE REFORMS UNDER NEP 2020

Abstract

Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), which emphasizes universal access, inclusion, and quality for children ages 3 to 8, is positioned as the cornerstone of lifelong learning in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. With the Foundational Stage emphasizing play-based, activity-oriented, and inquiry-driven learning, it reorganizes education into a 5+3+3+4 framework. In line with Sustainable Development Goal 4.2, the strategy combines formal education with Anganwadi centers to improve accessibility in marginalized populations. Culturally appropriate, multimodal methods are encouraged by NCERT's National Curricular and Pedagogical Framework for ECCE (NCPFECCE), and pedagogical competency is ensured by teacher training programs such six-month certificates, one-year diplomas, and continual professional development. Activities that promote prosocial behavior, emotional control, and problem-solving skills underscore the importance of ECCE in cognitive, emotional, and social development. Upgrading infrastructure, setting up mobile ECCE centers, and reaching out to underserved communities in their native tongues are some ways to close the gap between rural and urban areas. Strengthening the ECCE framework, encouraging school preparedness, and guaranteeing more seamless transitions to primary education all depend on play-based learning and teacher capacity building, which are aided by programs like NIPUN Bharat. All of India's children will have access to an early education system that is fair, focused on the needs of the child, and developmentally appropriate according to the provisions of NEP 2020.