Prime Highlights:
- NCERT will release revised school textbooks gradually, following NEP 2020, focusing on skill-based learning.
- Textbooks for Classes 1 to 8 are ready in print and digital formats, while Class 9 books will arrive in 2026–27.
Key Facts:
- Students in Classes 10 and 11 will continue with current textbooks in 2026–27; new editions will start from 2027–28.
- Teachers are advised to strengthen students’ basic knowledge and plan lessons carefully to ensure a smooth transition.
Background:
The National Council of Educational Research and Training announced that it will release new school textbooks in phases. These books follow the National Education Policy 2020 and aim to make learning more focused on skills and students across the country.
According to an official advisory issued from New Delhi, updated textbooks for primary and middle school students (Classes 1 to 8) have already been developed and are now available in both printed and digital formats. These books are designed in line with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023, which emphasises understanding, critical thinking and real-life application of knowledge over rote memorisation.
They will introduce the changes in secondary classes step by step. They are still developing the Class 9 textbooks, and they plan to use them in the 2026–27 academic session. Draft syllabus have already been uploaded on the NCERT’s official platform to help schools and teachers prepare in advance.
Students in Classes 10 and 11 will continue to use their current textbooks during the 2026–27 academic year. The authorities will introduce revised textbooks for these classes in the 2027–28 academic session to help students and teachers adjust more easily.
The advisory tells teachers to focus on strengthening students’ basic and prior knowledge before teaching the new content. Schools should plan lessons carefully to help students keep up during the transition.
NCERT emphasises that schools, teachers and administrators should work together to keep learning uninterrupted. The phased approach helps everyone adjust to the new curriculum without disruption.
As part of broader reforms under NEP 2020, India is revising textbooks to make education more flexible, inclusive, and focused on future skills.
