In subjects like mathematics, topics that were previously taught in higher grades — such as Arithmetic Progression and Geometric Progression GP — are being introduced as early as Class IX
Gurgaon: National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is preparing to introduce significantly revised textbooks for Classes IX and XI, starting from the current academic session.“Class IX textbooks are ready and are currently in the process of being printed. They will be released by April 10-15 at the latest,” said an NCERT official. Students entering Classes IX and XI this April will be the first to study under the updated framework, while those in Classes X and XII will continue with the existing syllabus for one more year before transitioning in the next session.Education experts highlight that the new curriculum involves a substantial overhaul, with nearly 60% of the content expected to change.
The primary focus is shifting toward practical knowledge and skill-based education rather than rote learning.In subjects like mathematics, topics that were previously taught in higher grades — such as Arithmetic Progression (AP) and Geometric Progression (GP) — are being introduced as early as Class IX, including new integrated English textbook “Kaveri” (replacing Beehive/Moments). This reorganisation aims to eliminate repetitive content and ensure a more logical flow of concepts across different grade levels.
The NCERT’s move — that aims to modernise the Indian schooling system — follows the guidelines of National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023 —developed by NCERT and guided by NEP 2020 — outlines a 5+3+3+4 structure for children aged 3-18. NCF 2023 replaces the older framework that was in place since 1985, marking a major shift in the country’s pedagogical approach.The transition to the new curriculum is being implemented in a phased manner across different school levels. While changes for the middle school stages, including Classes VI to VIII, have been underway for the last two years, this year marks the beginning of Phase 1 for secondary and senior secondary levels.Despite the start of the new academic session on April 1, many schools are currently operating with older textbooks as the new NCERT books are still in the printing process.NCERT previously issued a circular advising students and parents against purchasing old books, citing the upcoming changes. For the time being, teachers are using the digital syllabus uploaded on the NCERT website to align their lessons with the new requirements, focusing on overlapping topics until the fresh physical copies become available in the market.State education boards across India are also expected to follow suit, though many are currently waiting for the official release of the NCERT textbooks before updating their own localised syllabi.The shift is expected to require extensive training for educators, who must now adapt to new teaching methodologies and a reorganised subject structure.As the 2026 academic year progresses, the focus remains on ensuring a smooth transition for millions of students navigating this modernised educational landscape.
