On the occasion of NCERT's 65th Foundation Day, education minister Dharmendra Pradhan highlighted the need for the institution to evolve into a reform-driven, technology-led organization, while continuing its mission of shaping India’s education system.
1. NCERT: The Pillar of India’s Educational Landscape
Pradhan lauded NCERT as an iconic institution central to India’s education sector. He said the organization has played a pivotal role in shaping generations of students, helping them acquire knowledge, values, and skills essential for nation-building.
Describing NCERT as a “Gyan-Kumbh” for nation-building, he emphasized its contribution over the decades in creating a robust educational foundation. According to the minister, NCERT’s work is not limited to textbooks and curricula but extends to building competent citizens capable of contributing to the country’s growth.
2. Reform-Oriented Approach
Pradhan urged NCERT to embrace a reform-driven mindset by adopting global best practices. Highlighting the importance of modernization, he stressed that the institution should continue to play a leadership role in education while ensuring adaptability to contemporary challenges.
He said, “Children need to be proficient in English, but our clarity needs to improve. Clarity will improve in our own languages.” This statement underscored the need for balancing global competencies with local language and cultural strengths.
3. Tech-Led Learning: The wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital Push
One of the key aspects Pradhan highlighted was technology integration in education. He spoke about the upgraded wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital platform DIKSHA 2.0, describing it as fully responsive and accessible across multiple devices.
Key features of DIKSHA 2.0 include:
Structured lessons for all subjects
Adaptive assessments that respond to student learning patterns
AI-powered tools such as Read Aloud and translation in 12 indian languages
Personalized learning paths that strengthen both teacher and student roles
Pradhan highlighted direct student feedback on the platform, demonstrating how technology can enhance personalized learning, engagement, and accessibility.
4. NCERT as a Nation Builder
The minister reiterated that NCERT’s responsibility extends beyond education to shaping the knowledge and competence of the entire population. He said, “NCERT’s responsibility is to make the people of the country competent and improve their knowledge levels; you are nation builders.”
He also emphasized the role of NCERT in promoting self-reliance (atma nirbharta) and instilling self-respect (swabhiman) in students through education, aligning with India’s broader vision of empowered citizens.
5. Evolution of the National Curriculum Framework (NCF)
Pradhan touched upon the history of the National Curriculum Framework:
Created in 2000 during the nda government
Revised in 2005 under the UPA
He remarked that over the years, some perspectives caused confusion and deviation from the original objectives. He stressed that the current NCERT leadership is bringing clarity and aligning the curriculum to national priorities, ensuring that students receive value-based, self-reliance-oriented education.
6. The Road Ahead: Modernization and Global Competence
Looking forward, Pradhan urged NCERT to:
Adopt global best practices in pedagogy
Leverage technology for personalized, inclusive, and efficient learning
Focus on language proficiency and knowledge clarity
Act as a catalyst for nation-building through education
By combining reforms, technology, and value-driven curriculum, NCERT can continue to empower students and prepare india for the future.
NCERT, with its 65-year legacy, is now being called upon to lead india into a new era of wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital, reform-focused education, ensuring that the nation’s youth are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to thrive in a globalized world.
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