- NAAC has introduced a new accreditation framework shifting focus from 'inputs' to 'outcomes' in higher education institutions. - The revised framework aligns with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 to enhance educational quality, transparency, and global competitiveness. - Instead of heavily weighting infrastructure and resource inputs, the new system evaluates performance based on learning outcomes, research output, employability, and institutional governance. - **National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC):** An autonomous body established by the UGC to assess and accredit higher education institutions in India, ensuring quality assurance and academic standards. - **National Education Policy (NEP) 2020:** A comprehensive policy framework launched in 2020 to overhaul India’s education system from school to higher education, promoting holistic, multidisciplinary learning and equity. - **University Grants Commission (UGC):** A statutory body established by an Act of Parliament in 1956 for the coordination, determination, and maintenance of standards of university education in India. **Introduction** The National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) has rolled out a new accreditation framework for higher education institutions that prioritizes educational outcomes over traditional input metrics, aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. **Core Issue and Detailed Points** - NAAC has introduced a new accreditation framework shifting focus from 'inputs' to 'outcomes' in higher education institutions. - The revised framework aligns with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 to enhance educational quality, transparency, and global competitiveness. - Instead of heavily weighting infrastructure and resource inputs, the new system evaluates performance based on learning outcomes, research output, employability, and institutional governance. **Key Statutory Bodies, Acts & Concepts** - **National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC):** An autonomous body established by the UGC to assess and accredit higher education institutions in India, ensuring quality assurance and academic standards. - **National Education Policy (NEP) 2020:** A comprehensive policy framework launched in 2020 to overhaul India’s education system from school to higher education, promoting holistic, multidisciplinary learning and equity. - **University Grants Commission (UGC):** A statutory body established by an Act of Parliament in 1956 for the coordination, determination, and maintenance of standards of university education in India.