Enhancing Student Well-being through Yoga: A Strategic Approach within the New Education Policy for Universities

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Mr. P. P. Bhoge

ASC College, Taloda

Abstract

Government of India adapted new education policy on 29th July 2020. TheNational Education Policy (NEP) 2020 represents a Crucial and innovative shift in India’s educational framework, emphasizing holistic learning and the integration of traditional Indian knowledge systems, such as yoga and mindfulness. This research article presents a comprehensive analysis of how NEP 2020 has influenced the incorporation of yoga and mindfulness practices in Indian educational institutions. The study aims to assess the extent to which these practices have been adopted and their perceived benefits for students’ overall well-being through an in-depth review of policy documents, academic literature, and case studies. Yoga education aims to contribute the overall well-being of students by promoting their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual growth.Trained Instructors: Educators will receive specialized training to ensure they have the essential skills and knowledge to teach yoga effectively.The policy highlights the importance of traditional yoga practices, including asanas, pranayama, and meditation. Promoting research and innovation in yoga education to explore its benefits and applications, along with integrating yoga into higher education curriculum. Yoga will be available as an elective or credit course in universities and colleges.Yoga education will involve community engagement, promoting yoga practices beyond the classroom. The National Education Policy of India aims to cultivate a healthier, more balanced, and conscious society. Yoga education involves the study and practice of yoga principles, techniques, and philosophies, promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being along with spiritual development. Here are some essential elements of yoga education: Asanas (postures): Instruction on various yoga poses, breathing techniques, and alignment principles. Pranayama (breathing techniques): Guidance on conscious breathing practices. Meditation and Mindfulness: Understanding their origins, practices, and benefits for mental well-being. Integrating yoga education into NEP 2020 will help future generations achieve their goals more easily. It promotes innovative thinking, enhances cognitive skills, and improves overall well-being by keeping the body active. This paves the way for a healthier and happier generation.

Introduction-

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is an all-encompassing and forward-thinking approach to education in India. The aspects of this policy aim to encompass all levels of education, from elementary to higher education, across both rural and urban regions of India. The policy has been designed, detailed, and is being executed in alignment with the global education development framework outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4) of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which was officially approved and adopted by the Indian government in 2015. The National Education Policy 2020 places significant focus on to approve relativity among students. All-inclusive development of personality denotes the overall development of the future potential of every individual. It essentially represents the enhancement, progress, and advancement of logical, intellectual, physical, analytical, philosophical, and spiritual abilities in each individual, enabling them to meet the requirements, necessities, and challenges of contemporary life in the post-pandemic era. As stated earlier, these competencies and aptitudes are vital for attaining success and excellence in all aspects of personal and professional pursuits.

OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The main objective of this research article is to observe and reveal the impact of the new education Policy, 2020,Integrating Yoga into Higher Educationa comprehensive analyzed of its implementation within the new education policy framework for university students.

Research Methodology

This research article relies on gathering secondary data, conducting observations, inquiries, and performing a descriptive analysis. The necessary secondary data and information were sourced from various college teachers and students, newspapers, magazines, journal publications, and more. The collected data, observations, and inquiries were analyzed, assessed, and synthesized to reach a conclusion.

VARIOUS EDUCATIONAL POLICIES AND THEIR WORKED

  • In 1935, Macaulay introduced the educational proposal, which proved highly beneficial to the British Empire. n 1935, this fostered a perception of the education system as one that merely produced clerks, instilling apathy toward their own culture, traditional knowledge, and the Gurukul system, which offered holistic education to the younger generation.
  • “In 1948, to implement educational policies effectively, it is essential to examine the key functional changes. Following India’s independence in 1947, the University Education Commission was established under the leadership of Dr. Radhakrishnan. Subsequently, the Mudaliar Committee was formed in 1952, followed by the Kothari Commission in 1964.”
  • In 1968, the National Education Policy was introduced. Its key features included the emphasis on education as a means to achieve social harmony after independence. Gandhi highlighted the urgency of education that integrates intellectual and practical skills, making it directly relevant to everyone’s life. This pattern followed a 10+2+3 structure. Education was compulsory but free, with a focus on agriculture, industry, teacher training, grassroots education, examination requirements, and book production for language development. Additionally, Indian knowledge was included as a subject of study.
  • In 1986, the National Education Policy came again. In this policy, the pattern of 10+2+3 was kept as before. In this policy, teacher training, women education, education for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, Mid-day meal, healthy awareness, these all areas are focusing.The policy should also have a cultural perspective and inclusion of three languages was considered.
  • In 1990 External Quality assessment and 1994 National Assessment and accreditation council in 2005 The National Knowledge Commission, aimed to achieve objectives such as Expansion, Inclusion, and Excellence. But the other 50 universities have given suggestion and considered.
  • In 2008, the Dr. Yashpal Committee emphasized the importance of research and underscored its necessity.2013-RUSA Rashtriy Uchchstar Shiksha Abhiyan focuses on expansion of education and quality improvement.2011- In Maharashtra- Dr. Kakodkar/Dr Nigvekar/Dr Takawale committee, was established. In this, A3 i.e. Anyone, Anytime, anywhere is the overall idea of education. Also, adding to this, Dr Narendra Jadhav Committee has suggested to improve the quality of education by setting different criteria for research, skill development, and people of each level.2015 – It was during this period that the idea of ‘New Education Policy’ was started. A committee headed by TSR Subramanyam submitted a report in 2016, but the policy was not approved.
  • In 2020, following the 2016 initiatives, a committee led by K. Kasthurirangan carefully examined various aspects and formulated a new education policy. This policy was officially introduced for implementation on July 29, 2020.The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 includes yoga into its academic structure, striving to make physical education, sports, yoga, and mental wellness programs. Moreover, NEP 2020 supports Integrating yoga, naturopathy, and the AYUSH system into healthcare education. It also encourages integrating Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) into engineering diploma programs.
  • The Policy aims for an integrative system of healthcare education curriculum. Medical undergraduate students may have the opportunity to take a first-year credit course centered on Indian Systems of Medicine.  This course aims are to give basic knowledge about naturopathy, yoga, pranayama, Ayurveda etc. The second-year student have the option to enroll in a two-semester credit course that examines the theory and practice of a particular Indian System of Medicine, such as Yoga. NEP’s proposed framework emphasized that with 2 credits for the ‘Yoga education’ coursework, students can be equipped to be strong both physically and mentally, while aiding them in Integrating their physical, mental, and spiritual faculties.UGC has Guideline for Incorporating Indian Knowledge in Higher Education Curricula, 2023 stated that,considering the emphasis placed by NEP 2020 on integrating Indian context and the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) like Yoga ‘into our curricula and pedagogy, all students in undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) programs should be encouraged to take IKS credit courses amounting to at least five percent of their total required credits.

Conclusion

  • The national education policy (NEP) 2020 is a visionary framework designed to revamp India’s education system, making it more holistic, adaptable, and aligned with the demands of the 21st century. It highlights inclusivity, quality, and the incorporation of traditional Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS), with a particular focus on yoga education. This paper examines how the implementation of NEP 2020 promotes a well-rounded, balanced, and culturally enriched educational experience. The policy regards yoga as a comprehensive educational tool that fosters cognitive abilities, mental well-being, ethical principles, and inclusivity. Integrating yoga into higher education encourages lifelong learning and personal development, aligning with ancient Indian educational traditions. The policy emphasizes experiential learning, critical thinking, and ethical values, aligning with yoga principles to cultivate well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to society. By integrating yoga into the educational system, NEP 2020 respects India’s cultural heritage while providing students with essential tools for a balanced and fulfilling life.

Reference

  1. https://www.education.gov.in.
  2. Government of India. National Education Policy 2020.Ministry of Human Resource Development; 2020.
  • Ministry of Education. Implementation Plan for National Education Policy 2020. Government of India; c2021.
  • Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Khelo India Scheme. Government of India; c2021.
  • Sports Authority of India. Annual Report. Government of India; 2021.
  • Mrs. Rashmi P. and Dr. Jaydeep D.(2023)Place of Yoga in National Education Policy 2020.EPRA International Journal of Research and Development (IJRD) Journal DOI: 10.36713 ISSN: 2455-7838(Online) Volume: 8 | Issue: 6 | June 2023

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