ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND THE NATIONAL EDUCATION POLICY (NEP) 2020: A QUALITATIVE EXPLORATION OF INTEGRATION, OPPORTUNITIES, AND CHALLENGES

The integration of Artificial Intelligence(AI) into education has become a defining feature of 21st-century pedagogical transformation. AI technologies such as intelligent tutoring systems, adaptive learning platforms, and predictive analytics are reshaping teaching and learning into more personalized, data-driven processes. In the Indian context, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 envisions leveraging technology, including AI, to foster innovation, inclusivity, and lifelong learning. This qualitative study explores the intersection between AI and NEP 2020, examining their synergy, implementation challenges, and policy implications. Drawing upon literature, policy documents, and thematic analysis, the study identifies key themes personalized learning, teacher support, inclusivity, and ethical challenges and proposes actionable recommendations for policymakers and educators. The findings highlight that while AI has immense potential to transform education, its success depends on teacher preparedness, infrastructural readiness, and ethical governance.