The 1986 National Education Policy aimed to democratize education in India. It recommended reorganizing education into different stages, from early childhood to higher education. Key recommendations included implementing free and compulsory education up to age 14, establishing a national curriculum framework with common core subjects, strengthening vocational education, and improving the quality of higher education through better facilities and research. The policy emphasized removing disparities in access to education for disadvantaged groups and providing opportunities for talented students across India.