Recognising the pivotal role of knowledge in national development, the Government of India established the National Knowledge Commission (NKC) on 13th June 2005. With a three-year mandate until 2nd October 2008, the NKC was tasked as a high-level advisory body to the Prime Minister to steer reforms in education, science, technology, agriculture, industry, and governance.
India, with its demographic advantage of having the largest youth population globally, faces a historic opportunity to leverage knowledge as a driver for economic and social transformation. The NKC aimed to ensure equitable access, creation, and application of knowledge, enabling the nation to build human capabilities and innovation-driven growth.
Objectives of the National Knowledge Commission
The primary objective of the NKC is to develop a vibrant knowledge-based society in India. This entails enhancing existing knowledge systems and creating new avenues for learning and innovation. Key aims include:
- Strengthening the education system and fostering research and innovation
- Facilitating knowledge application in sectors like health, agriculture, and industry
- Leveraging information and communication technologies for better governance
- Promoting global exchange of knowledge and interaction between knowledge systems
Focus Areas of NKC
The NKC’s deliberations focused on five critical aspects of the knowledge paradigm:
| Focus Area | Key Highlights |
|---|---|
| Access to Knowledge | Right to Education, Language, Translation, Libraries, Networks, Portals |
| Knowledge Concepts | School & Vocational Education, Higher Education, Professional Courses (Medical, Legal, Engineering, Management), Open & Distance Learning, Open Educational Resources, STEM Talent Development, PhD Quality |
| Creation of Knowledge | Science & Technology, Publicly Funded Research, Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs), Innovations, Entrepreneurship |
| Knowledge Applications | Application in Agriculture, SMEs, Traditional Knowledge, Enhancing Quality of Life, Technological Change |
| Delivery Services | E-governance, Transparency, Accountability, Efficiency in Government Services, Citizen Empowerment |
Methodology Adopted by NKC
The NKC followed a systematic and consultative approach to guide its recommendations and implementation strategies:
- Identification of key focus areas and challenges
- Engagement with stakeholders, including experts, academics, and administrative authorities
- Formation of working groups, workshops, and consultations
- Coordination with administrative ministries and the Planning Commission
- Formulation of recommendations addressed to the Prime Minister, including financial implications and initial steps
- Dissemination of recommendations to state governments, civil society, and other stakeholders, through workshops and the NKC website
- Oversight of implementation under the guidance of the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO)
- Revision and finalisation of recommendations based on stakeholder feedback
NKC’s Impact and Legacy
The NKC’s recommendations have been instrumental in shaping India’s education and knowledge policies. Key achievements include:
- Greater access to quality education across all levels
- Emphasis on research, innovation, and STEM education
- Promotion of vocational and skill-based learning
- Integration of information technology for efficient governance
- Encouragement of global knowledge exchange to enhance India’s competitive edge
By focusing on knowledge as a strategic national resource, the NKC has played a central role in preparing India to meet the demands of the 21st century, fostering inclusive growth, innovation, and knowledge-driven development.
Conclusion
National Knowledge Commission laid the foundation for India’s transition into a knowledge economy, emphasising innovation, equitable access, and practical application of knowledge. Its legacy continues to influence policy-making in education, research, and governance, ensuring that India’s demographic advantage translates into sustainable national progress.
