The Indian education system is undergoing a quiet but significant shift. As outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, there’s a move away from content-heavy, rote-based learning towards competency-based education (CBE)—where what a student can do matters more than what they can memorize.
But are Indian schools truly ready for this transformation?
Competency-based learning focuses on mastering specific skills and concepts at a personalized pace. It emphasizes application, critical thinking, and real-world problem-solving over textbook completion and theoretical exams. Instead of teaching to a test, teachers facilitate deeper understanding through hands-on learning, assessments, and feedback loops.
In theory, CBE is ideal for India’s diverse classrooms. It allows each student to learn at their own speed, bridges learning gaps, and aligns well with 21st-century skills. However, putting it into practice is another matter.
Most Indian schools—especially in urban areas—have begun to adapt. Progressive CBSE, ICSE, and IB schools are already experimenting with portfolio assessments, rubrics, project-based tasks, and peer reviews. Some are integrating cross-disciplinary modules that focus on outcomes like collaboration, digital literacy, and problem-solving rather than rigid subject marks.
That said, the biggest challenge lies in mindset and infrastructure. For decades, the Indian system has revolved around syllabus completion, unit tests, and board exam percentages. Moving to a model where learning is fluid and mastery is key requires re-training of teachers, restructuring of curriculum, and redesigning of assessments. Not all schools—particularly in rural or underfunded regions—have the resources or support to make that shift yet.
Moreover, teacher training is critical. CBE requires educators to become mentors who can assess not just right or wrong answers, but depth of understanding and skill application. Schools that invest in upskilling their teachers are more likely to see real impact.
The good news? The CBSE has begun including competency-based questions in exams, and NCERT is pushing for experiential learning materials. Initiatives like DIKSHA and NISHTHA are working to equip educators for the change. A growing number of private and public schools are showing that the model can work—when properly implemented.
The road ahead is long, but the direction is right. Competency-based learning holds the promise of making education more meaningful, inclusive, and future-ready. With the right support, Indian schools can gradually shift from a race for marks to a journey of mastery—and that could redefine success for generations to come.
