Abstract: The New Education Policy (NEP 2020) marks a transformative shift in India’s higher education system by promoting multidisciplinary learning, academic flexibility, skill development, digital integration, and governance reforms. Its successful implementation requires significant academic, administrative, and structural changes within higher education institutions (HEIs). This study examines the challenges, opportunities, and institutional transformation associated with NEP 2020 adoption.

    Using a descriptive and analytical research design, primary data were collected from faculty members, administrators, and students across selected HEIs. The study analyzes issues related to curriculum restructuring, faculty readiness, digital infrastructure, governance adaptation, and student engagement. Findings indicate that while NEP 2020 presents substantial opportunities for improving educational quality, employability, and research culture, institutions face major barriers including inadequate infrastructure, training gaps, regulatory complexities, and financial constraints.

    The research highlights the importance of strategic leadership, change management, policy support, and capacity-building initiatives to ensure effective policy execution. The study contributes to the understanding of systemic reforms and institutional readiness in the context of higher education transformation.

Keywords: Higher Education, Institutional Transformation, Policy Implementation, Educational Reforms.