Which of the following are four guiding principles in the development of higher education in India?

Correct option is C

Introduction:

This question asks to identify the four core guiding principles that underpin the development of higher education in India, as often articulated in policy documents like the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Information Booster: The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and other official documents consistently highlight several foundational pillars for the Indian higher education system. Among the options provided, the set that most accurately represents four of these key guiding principles is:

Access: Ensuring that higher education opportunities are available to all eligible individuals, regardless of their background, location, or socio-economic status. This involves expanding institutions, offering diverse programs, and addressing geographical barriers.

Equity: Promoting fairness and justice in higher education, ensuring that all students have an equal chance to succeed, and addressing disparities faced by disadvantaged groups. This goes beyond mere access to ensure inclusive and supportive environments.

 Accountability: Holding higher education institutions and stakeholders responsible for their performance, quality, and effective utilization of resources. This involves transparent governance, robust regulatory frameworks, and measurable outcomes.

Quality: Striving for excellence in all aspects of higher education, including curriculum, pedagogy, research, faculty, and infrastructure, to ensure that graduates are well-prepared and globally competitive.

While other terms like "Affordability" are also crucial (often listed as a fifth pillar alongside these four, making it "Access, Equity, Quality, Affordability, and Accountability"), the combination of "Access, Equity, Accountability, Equality" is the most fitting among the given choices, with 'Equality' often being subsumed under 'Equity' or used interchangeably in some contexts to emphasize fairness.

Therefore, the most appropriate set of four guiding principles among the given options is Access, Equity, Accountability, and Equality.

Additional Knowledge:

The NEP 2020 particularly emphasizes a holistic and multidisciplinary education, aiming to transform India into a vibrant knowledge society.

These principles guide policy formulation, institutional reforms, and resource allocation in the higher education sector.