ABSTRACT: India's education system has undergone significant transformations, from the ancient gurukul tradition to the colonial Macaulay model and post-independence reforms. However, it has long been criticized for its rigid, examination-driven structure, which prioritizes rote learning over critical thinking and skill development. In recent years, innovations in teaching-learning pedagogy have emerged, driven by digital technology, policy shifts, and experiential learning methodologies. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 marks a crucial step towards holistic, multidisciplinary education, while EdTech platforms, gamification, personalized learning, and skill-based training are reshaping classrooms. Despite these advancements, challenges such as infrastructural deficiencies, teacher training gaps, and the digital divide persist, threatening the equitable implementation of reforms. This research critically examines the evolution of India’s education system and the impact of recent pedagogical innovations while highlighting the need for inclusive, systemic change to ensure meaningful and accessible learning for all.

Keywords: Education Reform, Teaching-Learning Pedagogy, NEP 2020, Digital Learning, Rote Learning, Historical Transformation, Gurukul System

Download: | DOI: 10.17148/IMRJR.2026.030201