India’s education sector underwent significant transformation in 2024, marked by sweeping policy decisions and controversies that shaped its landscape. From the ambitious ‘One Nation One Subscription’ (ONOS) initiative to changes in national entrance exams, these developments reflect efforts to streamline and elevate the education system.
Unified Vision for Academic Resources: One Nation One Subscription
The Union Cabinet allocated ₹6,000 crore for the ONOS initiative to centralize journal subscriptions for over 6,300 government-run higher education institutions (HEIs). Launching January 1, 2025, ONOS will grant access to 13,000 scholarly journals on a single platform, eliminating fragmented library consortia.
By fostering equitable access to academic resources, this initiative aims to boost research output and create a uniform academic environment across India.
NEET-UG 2024: Controversy and Accountability
The year’s most debated event was the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) held on May 5. Allegations of question paper leaks and malpractice led to arrests in Bihar and Gujarat, with investigations revealing organized cheating networks.
The National Testing Agency’s (NTA) decision to award grace marks to over 1,500 students further fueled criticism, raising questions about the exam’s integrity. Despite official denials of corruption, the incident highlighted the need for stricter measures to safeguard national examinations.
CUET Revamp: Streamlining Admissions
The Common University Entrance Test (CUET) for undergraduate admissions saw major changes for 2025. The UGC announced that CUET-UG will now be fully computer-based, with the number of subjects reduced from 63 to 37. Admissions for dropped subjects will depend on a General Aptitude Test (GAT).
The reforms aim to address logistical challenges and make the process more efficient and student-friendly, reflecting a commitment to fairness and accessibility in university admissions.
JNU’s Admission Exam Debate
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) faced controversy over PhD admissions after the cancellation of the UGC National Eligibility Test (NET). The university proposed a return to in-house entrance exams, but internal disagreements stalled the decision.
This uncertainty highlights broader challenges in re-establishing a robust system for postgraduate admissions and research opportunities.
Scrapping the No-Detention Policy
In a significant move, the Central government scrapped the no-detention policy for students in classes 5 and 8 in Central schools, including Kendriya Vidyalayas and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas.
The policy reversal aligns with similar decisions by 18 states and Union Territories, aiming to enhance academic rigor and accountability. However, critics warn of potential increases in dropout rates, underscoring the need for balanced implementation.
The year 2024 marked a pivotal phase for India’s education sector, combining innovation with challenges. As reforms continue, the focus remains on creating an equitable, efficient, and robust education system capable of meeting the nation’s evolving needs.
