New Delhi, September 1: The Indian government is developing school textbooks in 22 different languages. Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi announced this initiative on Tuesday, praising the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) for promoting multilingual education.
He stated that textbooks for grades one through eight are being prepared in all 22 languages listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. Additionally, 121 early language materials are being created in various Indian languages, including 93 tribal languages.
Joshi emphasized that this initiative will provide children the opportunity to learn in their native languages, facilitating education across diverse regions and communities in the country.
During the 66th anniversary celebration of NCERT in New Delhi, he noted that the National Education Policy 2020 has laid a strong foundation for comprehensive reforms in school education. This policy focuses not only on rote learning but also on holistic development, creativity, logical thinking, experiential learning, and competency-based education.
Joshi remarked that NCERT plays a crucial role in transforming school education and shaping the future of children. He urged NCERT to foster more innovation, inclusivity, research, and adapt to future needs in the education sector.
The Union Education Minister highlighted that NCERT has been a vital part of the Indian education system for over six decades. Its textbooks, study materials, and curriculum frameworks have significantly contributed to guiding school education in the country.
He mentioned that the new books prepared by NCERT aim to make learning more engaging, relevant, and connected to students’ lives while also giving due importance to India’s heritage and knowledge traditions.
Joshi pointed out that technology is rapidly evolving, and the role of AI in education and society is continuously increasing. Therefore, NCERT must strengthen its research mechanisms and better utilize technology.
He stressed that it is no longer sufficient to provide students with knowledge of traditional subjects. They must also be equipped with skills such as digital literacy, understanding of artificial intelligence, logical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of mental health in the education system. He stated that appropriate curriculum changes, psychosocial support, and teacher training should focus on the mental well-being of children.
During the ceremony, the Education Minister inaugurated several new facilities at NCERT, including a Robotics Learning Center, a Translation Laboratory, and an Advanced Television Studio. These facilities will aid in technology-based education, the development of educational materials in Indian languages, and new digital educational programs.
Joshi emphasized that NCERT should leverage its over six decades of experience and achievements to meet the changing needs of education. He called for NCERT to become a more innovative, inclusive, research-based, and future-ready institution.
The event was attended by Dr. Chamu Krishna Shastri, Chairman of the Indian Language Committee, NCERT Director Prof. Dinesh Prasad Saklani, and senior officials from the Ministry of Education and NCERT.
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