Abstract

In the twenty-first century, teaching faces unprecedented challenges marked by rapid educational changes, heightened accountability demands, technological disruption, and increasingly diverse student needs. In India’s context, these pressures are compounded by large classroom sizes, curriculum modifications, inclusive education mandates, and the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. In response to these mounting stressors, there is an imperative need for educators who are psychologically resilient, professionally efficacious, and pedagogically skilled. This chapter examines teacher resilience and professional efficacy, their conceptual foundations, theoretical underpinnings, and mutual relationships. Drawing on international research and Indian policy frameworks, particularly the NEP 2020, this chapter discusses evidence-based strategies for enhancing resilience and efficacy at individual, institutional, and systemic levels. The chapter concludes by articulating implications for teacher education, school leadership, and educational policy in India, arguing that investing in teacher well-being and efficacy is foundational to achieving sustainable, high-quality education systems.