Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Higher Education under NEP 2020: A Competency-Based Framework for Achieving Viksit Bharat 2047

Abstract

Abstract AI and ML are rapidly changing higher education by redefining teaching, learning, research, evaluation, and institutional governance. India's National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 envisions a transdisciplinary, technology-enabled, learner-centric, and innovation-driven education system that produces globally competent graduates who can contribute to Viksit Bharat 2047. Despite rising acceptance of AI-based educational technology, equitable access, faculty preparedness, ethical governance, digital infrastructure, and curriculum revision for future workforce needs remain problems. This study critically investigates how AI and ML might improve the quality, accessibility, inclusivity, and effectiveness of higher education in India within NEP 2020. It examines the transformative potential of AI-enabled adaptive learning systems, intelligent tutoring, predictive learning analytics, automated assessment, academic administration, and research support, using a doctrinal and analytical research methodology grounded in policy documents, government reports, and contemporary academic literature. It also highlights algorithmic unfairness, data privacy, cybersecurity, digital inequality, academic integrity, and ethical issues in the implementation of generative AI. The Competency-Based AI Integration Framework (AI-HE 2047 Framework) integrates digital literacy, critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, research and innovation, ethical AI governance, and lifelong learning competencies to align AI adoption with the goals of NEP 2020. The methodology helps higher education institutions produce AI-ready graduates for an innovation-driven knowledge economy. The study found that responsible integration of AI and ML, supported by policy reforms, faculty capacity building, institutional readiness, and ethical governance mechanisms, can improve educational quality, employability, research excellence, and India's transition to a knowledge-powered economy under Viksit Bharat 2047.