Discuss the role of NCERT in shaping educational policies. What measures can be taken to prevent inappropriate content in textbooks?

GS2 Education
Discuss the role of NCERT in shaping educational policies. What measures can be taken to prevent inappropriate content in textbooks?

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The Hindu

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The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), established in 1961, plays a pivotal role in shaping India’s school education framework. As an autonomous body under the Ministry of Education, it acts as the academic authority for curriculum design, pedagogical standards, and textbook development.

Role of NCERT in shaping educational policies:

  1. Curriculum Framework: NCERT formulates the National Curriculum Framework (NCF), which guides syllabus design across CBSE and influences State Boards. The NCF reflects constitutional values such as secularism, equality, and scientific temper.

  2. Textbook Development: It prepares textbooks aligned with national priorities, ensuring uniform academic standards and accessibility.

  3. Teacher Training: Through Regional Institutes of Education (RIEs), NCERT conducts training programmes and develops teaching-learning materials, strengthening implementation of policies like NEP 2020.

  4. Research and Innovation: It undertakes educational research, pilot projects, and assessment reforms, influencing evidence-based policymaking.

  5. Advisory Role: NCERT provides academic inputs to the Centre and States on school education reforms, examination patterns, and learning outcomes.

However, controversies over textbook content highlight the need for safeguards.

Measures to prevent inappropriate content:

  1. Multi-layered Review Mechanism: Independent subject experts, constitutional scholars, and child psychologists should vet content before publication.

  2. Transparency: Draft textbooks should be placed in the public domain for stakeholder feedback.

  3. Institutional Autonomy: Safeguard NCERT from political interference through fixed tenure for key officials and statutory protection.

  4. Periodic Revision: Regular audits to ensure factual accuracy and inclusivity.

  5. Grievance Redressal Mechanism: A time-bound, transparent process to address objections.

In a diverse democracy, NCERT’s role is not merely academic but nation-shaping. Ensuring credibility, inclusivity, and constitutional alignment in textbooks is essential for fostering informed and critical citizens.