What's new in NCERT textbooks? A look at five major changes brought in 2025

In 2025, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has overhauled the curriculum as per the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and National Curriculum Framework (NCF) 2023. Whether it was the deletion of history modules or the addition of vocational training, the NCERT textbooks are facing major developments this year, starting with modules based on the Indian Operation Sindoor.

Although the same topics are in effect, the council has decided to chuck out but also introduce some new topics relevant to students. Today, we’re going to discuss the prominent changes initiated by the NCERT that students must know before entering 2026.

History Updates

Contrary to the earlier pattern, the new History textbooks will emphasize more on activities and contexts and less on the title itself. To incorporate this, the names 'Akbar the Great' and 'Tipu Sultan the Great' will be erased from the textbooks. Leaving aside these, the decline of Mughal Empire after the death of Aurangzeb and certain mentions of rulers like Raziyya Sultan and Nur Jehan will also be erased.

In addition, matters such as ‘Cold War Era’ and ‘US Hegemony in World Politics’ are absent in Class 12 history textbooks.

Now, the textbooks are more based on ancient Indian dynasties, the contribution of tribal communities, and Indian scientists. A lot of new topics have been included, such as the manner in which the land itself can become sacred, cultural topics such as Maha Kumbh.

Although there were concerns raised by critics, terming this an attempt at “politically or ideologically motivated changes,” there was support by others, stating that there is rationalization of these in terms of NCF-SE 2023 and NEP 2020. On why particular topics had been removed, there was an explanation that it is to prevent duplication and students’ overload.

Vocational Education from 6th Standard

Keeping in mind the aim to incorporate skill-based learning in Indian classrooms, the NCERT thought of implementing vocational courses from Class 6. This will not only help students in gaining confidence, creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills but also improve employability.

Special Moduless - Operation Sindoor

For spreading awareness among students about India's struggle against terrorism, NCERT has started two new modules for students of classes 3 to 12 in Operation Sindoor. It's not just a military operation, but it has also been termed as ‘A commitment to safeguard peace, in tribute to those who lost their lives in Pahalgam terror attack.’

Both modules are called “Operation Sindoor—A Saga of Valour” for the preparatory and middle levels/Classes 3 to 8, and “Operation Sindoor—A Mission of Honour and Bravery” for the secondary level/Classes 9 to 12. Both modules have been designed keeping in mind the objective of creating awareness of Indian military might among school-going kids.

New Swadeshi Module

In order to encourage 'self-sustenance' in Indians, NCERT has also included a 'Swadeshi' module for middle and secondary classes. It links up Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Atmanirbhar Bharat to the 'Swadeshi Movement'.

These newly included modules begin with quotational segments of PM Modi’s 79th Independence Day speech. For many years now, PM Modi has been reiterating that "self-reliance is the bedrock of national strength and dignity." Many times, in different addresses, PM Modi has appealed to the people and shopkeepers of the nation that they should promote Made in India products. This must be done voluntarily and with pride.

Bridging Programmes for Key Grades

Bridge programmes Also this year, the NCERT launched the Bridge courses for classes 1, 3, 5, 6, and 8. These are the short-term educational programs which have been started to bridge the gap in the educational experience of the students moving from one academic level to another or one educational system to the other.