Yoga Education under NEP 2020: A Step towards Holistic Development
International Journal of Novel Research and Development March 1, 2026 DOI: 10.56975/ijnrd.v11i3.322666 (opens in new tab) via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractThis paper examines the role of Yoga Education within India's National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which shifts from fragmented to holistic learning. Drawing on classical yogic principles, educational theory, and empirical studies, the authors argue that yoga fosters physical health, cognitive competence, emotional balance, ethical sensitivity, and spiritual awareness. They propose that integrating yoga into school and teacher education can address challenges like stress, poor focus, and value erosion. The paper contends that Yoga Education offers a culturally rooted yet globally relevant approach, potentially cultivating balanced, reflective, and socially responsible individuals.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Meditation |
| Keywords | Transformative learning Scope computer science Holistic education Inclusion mineral Value mathematics |
| Key finding | Argues that Yoga Education, as envisioned under NEP 2020, provides a culturally rooted and globally relevant approach to fostering holistic development and addressing contemporary educational challenges. |
Abstract
The introduction of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 represents a landmark reform in India’s educational landscape, emphasizing a shift from fragmented learning to a more integrated and holistic model of education. Among its many transformative provisions, the inclusion of Yoga Education emerges as a significant step toward nurturing the multidimensional development of learners. This paper explores the role of Yoga Education within the philosophical and practical framework of NEP 2020, highlighting its relevance in fostering physical health, cognitive competence, emotional balance, ethical sensitivity, and spiritual awareness. Drawing upon classical yogic principles, contemporary educational theory, and recent empirical studies, the paper critically examines how yoga can be effectively integrated into school and teacher education systems. It further discusses pedagogical strategies, institutional challenges, and the evolving scope of yoga in modern education. The study argues that Yoga Education offers a culturally rooted yet globally relevant approach to addressing current educational challenges, including stress, lack of focus, and value erosion. By aligning ancient wisdom with contemporary needs, Yoga Education under NEP 2020 has the potential to cultivate balanced, reflective, and socially responsible individuals.