National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and Women’s Empowerment through Indigenous Knowledge Systems

National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and Women’s Empowerment through Indigenous Knowledge Systems

Dr. Ram Butke

College of Social Work, Kamptee

R. T. M. Nagpur University, Nagpur

Abstract

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 represents a landmark reform in India’s educational framework, aiming to align learning with the country’s cultural roots, sustainability goals, and inclusive development vision. Central to this policy is the integration of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) — the traditional wisdom, practices, and skills that have been passed down through generations. This paper examines how NEP 2020 can become a powerful instrument for women’s empowerment by re-establishing the relevance of indigenous knowledge in modern education and livelihood opportunities. Historically, women have been vital custodians of India’s indigenous wisdom, contributing significantly to areas such as traditional medicine, agriculture, handicrafts, and community-based learning. By recognizing and formalizing these contributions within the educational system, NEP 2020 holds the potential to validate women’s roles as knowledge-bearers and innovators.

The study adopts a qualitative research approach, drawing from policy analysis, case studies, and secondary data to evaluate how gender-sensitive implementation of NEP 2020 can enhance women’s participation in education, leadership, and entrepreneurship. It also explores the socio-economic impact of integrating IKS into vocational and higher education, especially for women in rural and tribal communities. The findings suggest that embedding indigenous perspectives into curricula not only fosters cultural continuity but also equips women with context-specific skills for sustainable development. However, the paper also identifies challenges such as lack of institutional support, gender bias, and limited awareness regarding IKS frameworks. Ultimately, this research emphasizes that women’s empowerment through NEP 2020 requires a balanced approach that combines traditional wisdom with modern pedagogy, ensuring that education becomes both inclusive and transformative.

Keywords: NEP 2020, Women’s Empowerment, Indigenous Knowledge Systems, Gender Equality, Indian Education, Sustainable Development

DOI link – https://doi.org/10.69758/GIMRJ/2601S01V14P068

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