Transforming Education with NEP 2020: Ravi Bagdi, Sports Coordinator, Jasudben ML School, Mumbai Discusses the Role of Sports in Holistic Student Growth.
NEP 2020 (The National Education Policy 2020) has introduced a groundbreaking shift in the way sports in education is perceived. Historically considered an extracurricular activity, sports is now recognized as a core pillar of holistic development, contributing to students’ emotional, physical, and cognitive growth.
A recent PUMA-Nielsen survey reveals that Indian children spend only 86 minutes per week on physical activities, falling short of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended 420 minutes. This stark statistic highlights the urgent need for structured sports programs within schools. NEP 2020 addresses this gap by integrating sports-integrated learning into the Indian school curriculum, promoting fitness, life skills, and cultural values from an early age.
Sports: The Foundation of Holistic Development
Sports is no longer viewed as a mere pastime but as a significant driver of student development. Studies have consistently shown that students participating in physical activities experience better mental health, lower stress levels, and enhanced academic performance.
NEP 2020 prioritizes sports-integrated learning, where games and fitness are part of the academic curriculum. This approach aims to instill the value of lifelong fitness among students, making education more comprehensive.
Initiatives such as the Fit India Movement perfectly align with NEP’s vision, urging students to embrace fitness as a habit, not just a goal. Through structured sports programs and inter-school tournaments, students develop crucial life skills like discipline, teamwork, time management, and the ability to perform under pressure.
Reviving Indigenous Sports: Building a Cultural Connection
One of the standout aspects of NEP 2020 is its emphasis on indigenous sports. By integrating traditional games into the school curriculum, the policy creates a unique blend of modern education and cultural awareness.
Games such as Kabaddi, Kho Kho, and Mallakhamb are now being promoted as part of the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) 2023. These activities not only enhance physical and mental well-being but also foster a deeper connection to India’s cultural roots.
Through indigenous sports, students learn life skills like communication, tolerance, and collaboration while appreciating the richness of India’s heritage. Schools are encouraged to incorporate these traditional games alongside modern sports to create a balanced curriculum.
Sports and Nation-Building: A Collective Responsibility
Sports extends beyond personal benefits, playing a vital role in building a healthy and responsible society. According to UNESCO, industrialized countries place equal emphasis on sports and academics, recognizing their combined contribution to nation-building.
India’s initiatives like Khelo India and the National Sports Development Fund (NSDF) have significantly contributed to talent identification, infrastructure development, and promoting sports as a career path. The country’s growing success in international events like the Paralympics and Olympics is a testament to the increasing investment in the sports ecosystem.
NEP 2020’s integration of sports not only fosters healthier individuals but also nurtures future leaders who are physically fit, mentally sharp, and socially responsible.
Addressing Disparities in Sports Engagement
While the policy provides a strong framework, a disparity in sports engagement continues to exist. Many schools still prioritize academics over physical education, limiting students’ exposure to the benefits of sports.
NEP 2020 encourages schools to adopt a balanced approach, celebrating both academic and physical achievements. Incorporating daily sports activities into the curriculum ensures that students see athletics not as optional but as a crucial part of their overall development.
Educators, parents, and policymakers must collectively work to address these disparities and create an environment where fitness and learning coexist seamlessly.
Conclusion: Building a Healthier and Happier India
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 represents a significant step toward creating a balanced educational ecosystem where sports in education is as essential as academics. Through initiatives like the Fit India Movement, indigenous sports promotion, and structured tournaments, NEP lays the foundation for students to become well-rounded, responsible citizens.
Investing in both academic and physical development ensures that future generations are not only intellectually capable but also emotionally resilient and physically fit. As India strives for a developed future, holistic development through sports will play a vital role in shaping healthier and happier citizens who contribute meaningfully to the nation’s growth.
This article appreared in Prittle Prattle News online portal on 27th December, 2024.
