NCERT Announces 20% Price Cut on Class 9-12 Textbooks for Upcoming Academic Year

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has made a significant announcement: a 20% price reduction for textbooks catering to classes 9 to 12. This change will come into effect from the upcoming academic year, aiming to ease the financial burden on students and parents.

A Historic Decision for Affordable Education

NCERT Director Dinesh Prasad Saklani highlighted the importance of this decision during an event held on Monday. “This is the first time the prices of textbooks have been substantially reduced,” he said, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of this move in NCERT’s history.

Efficiency in Operations Leads to Cost Reduction

Saklani attributed the price reduction to NCERT’s improved operational efficiencies. "This year, NCERT has brought in a lot of efficiency in paper procurement and onboarded printers with the latest printing technology. These cost savings have been passed on to students," Saklani explained.

Revised Pricing Details

All textbooks for grades 9-12 will now be sold at 20% lower prices compared to their current cost. However, textbooks for grades 1-8 will remain priced at Rs 65 per copy, ensuring continued affordability for younger students.

Announcement During Bhumi Pujan Event

The announcement was made during the Bhumi Pujan ceremony for the construction of an auditorium at the NCERT Headquarters. The event was presided over by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who praised NCERT’s commitment to making education accessible to all.

Partnership with Flipkart and Amazon for Wider Access

As part of its effort to enhance textbook availability, NCERT signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Flipkart during the event. This partnership, along with existing collaborations with platforms like Amazon, ensures that students across India can access genuine NCERT textbooks conveniently.

NCERT's Expanding Reach

NCERT prints 4-5 crore textbooks annually, spanning approximately 300 titles. By partnering with e-commerce giants, NCERT has expanded its reach, making affordable textbooks accessible to students nationwide, even in remote areas.

A Step Towards Inclusive Education

This 20% price reduction, combined with NCERT’s growing accessibility through digital and e-commerce platforms, reflects its mission to make quality education resources affordable for all. It marks a pivotal moment in the journey toward more inclusive education in India.

About NCERT

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is an autonomous organization established by the Government of India in 1961. Headquartered in New Delhi, NCERT is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs aimed at improving the quality of school education in India.

NCERT plays a vital role in designing and publishing textbooks, creating educational resources, conducting research, and developing teaching methodologies for schools across the country. It collaborates with state education boards and various educational institutions to ensure a uniform and high-quality education system nationwide.

Key Functions of NCERT

1. Development of Curriculum and Textbooks: NCERT develops syllabi and textbooks for schools following the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) curriculum. These resources aim to standardize education and maintain high academic standards.

2. Educational Research and Training: NCERT conducts extensive research on pedagogy, teaching techniques, and assessment systems to improve classroom practices and teacher training.

3. Capacity Building: It offers training programs and workshops for teachers and educators, enhancing their skills and knowledge to meet evolving educational needs.

4. Policy Advisory Role: NCERT advises the central and state governments on educational policies and helps implement programs like the National Curriculum Framework (NCF).

5. E-Learning Initiatives: With platforms like DIKSHA and e-Pathshala, NCERT promotes digital learning and ensures that educational materials are accessible online for students and teachers.

NCERT’s Vision

NCERT envisions a future where every child in India receives quality education that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. Through its commitment to innovation and inclusion, NCERT continues to shape the educational landscape in India, bridging gaps and setting global standards.

Conclusion

The NCERT’s decision to reduce textbook prices for classes 9 to 12 by 20% is a significant step toward making education more affordable and accessible for students across India. By streamlining paper procurement processes, leveraging advanced printing technology, and partnering with e-commerce platforms like Flipkart and Amazon, NCERT has demonstrated its commitment to efficiency and inclusivity. This unprecedented move not only eases the financial burden on parents but also reinforces NCERT's mission to ensure quality education for all. As these efforts align with India's broader educational goals, this initiative sets a new benchmark in making learning resources universally accessible.