Central education department clarifies misleading reports on NCERT textbook availability

Hyderabad: The Central Education Department has issued a clarification regarding a misleading news article published in ‘The Hindu’ on July 9, 2024.

The article, titled “Confusion over revised NCERT textbooks for classes VI, IX and XI leave teachers in a tizzy,” contained several inaccuracies, according to the Central Education Department.

Background of the Controversy

‘The Hindu’ article claimed that there was confusion over the availability and revision of NCERT textbooks for classes VI, IX, and XI.

Specifically, it alleged that Class VI textbooks would take another two months to reach students, that there was unclear communication regarding the revisions for Classes IX and XI, and that several textbooks for these grades had not been printed.

Key Clarifications

Availability of Grade 6 Textbooks: The Central Education Department has confirmed that all Grade 6 textbooks will be available within July 2024. The claim of a two-month delay is incorrect. To facilitate a smooth transition to the new curriculum, NCERT has already provided a month-long bridge program in ten subject areas for Grade 6, which is currently in use.

Curriculum Changes: The CBSE had previously informed, via circular no. Acad. 29/2024 dated March 22, 2024, that there would be no changes to the existing curriculum or textbooks for any classes other than Grades 3 and 6. Schools have been advised to continue using the same textbooks as the previous academic year (2023-24) for all other classes.

Availability of Class 9 and 11 Textbooks: The Central Education Department clarified that the NCERT Publication Division has met the title-wise demand for Class 9 and 11 textbooks from the RPDC Bangalore, which serves South Indian states including Tamil Nadu. No shortage has been reported by RPDC Bangalore.

A Central Education Department spokesperson stated, “The news item published by ‘The Hindu’ is factually incorrect and misleading. We urge all concerned to refer to official communications for accurate information regarding NCERT textbooks.”

“The clarification aims to allay any misgivings and provide greater clarity on the matter, ensuring that both teachers and students are well-informed about the availability and status of NCERT textbooks” the statement read.