Thu Mar 27 17:10:52 UTC 2025: ## Parliamentary Panel Urges Increased Funding for National Education Policy Implementation

**New Delhi, March 27, 2025** – A Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, chaired by Congress MP Digvijaya Singh, has called for increased central government funding to support states in implementing the National Education Policy (NEP). The report, tabled in Parliament today, highlights the significant financial burden placed on states by NEP provisions such as dual degrees, biannual admissions, four-year degree programs, and multidisciplinary universities.

The committee also expressed concern over a decline in placements at prestigious institutions like IITs, IIITs, and NITs between 2021-22 and 2023-24, excluding IIMs. While acknowledging that market trends influence placement numbers, the report urges the government to investigate the reasons for this drop, including the possibility of students pursuing further education or startup opportunities, and to develop strategies to enhance employability. A decline in average salary packages offered was also noted.

Furthermore, the report points to a lack of significant growth in the Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education over the past five years. The committee recommends increased government spending to align with the NEP’s 2035 targets.

The report also raises questions about the Common University Entrance Test (CUET), suggesting that its multiple-choice format may be unsuitable for humanities and social sciences. The committee recommends reviewing the CUET’s design and question paper quality to ensure it aligns with the NEP’s goals and allows universities with specific legislative mandates, such as Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), to meet their unique needs. Further deliberation on the CUET’s role is planned.

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