To standardize education and alleviate financial pressures on parents, the Delhi Education Department has mandated that schools refrain from requiring students up to Class VIII to use textbooks other than those prescribed by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) or the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT).
According to Indian Express reports, this directive seeks to bring uniformity to the educational materials used in schools and prohibits the imposition of additional textbooks. Schools are now barred from prescribing or compelling students to purchase books outside the NCERT/SCERT framework. The decision also extends to the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), restricting them from recommending extra textbooks.
The directive responds to growing concerns about the financial burden placed on parents by the requirement to purchase multiple sets of textbooks. By enforcing the exclusive use of NCERT/SCERT textbooks, the department aims to promote a standardized and equitable education system in Delhi.
The department has warned sternly that action will be taken against schools violating this directive. This measure is designed to reduce costs for parents and ensure a level playing field for all students, regardless of their socio-economic background.
The focus on NCERT/SCERT textbooks is rooted in their comprehensive and balanced content, which aligns with the national educational standards. The uniform use of these textbooks is expected to enhance the quality of education and ensure that all students receive consistent and high-standard learning materials.
Parents and educators have broadly welcomed the move, recognizing its potential to simplify the educational process and reduce unnecessary expenses. The directive reflects a broader commitment to improving the education system in Delhi, ensuring it is accessible and fair to all students.
This policy shift underscores the importance of a regulated and standardized approach to education, prioritizing the needs and well-being of students and their families. By removing the requirement for additional textbooks, the Delhi Education Department aims to foster an environment where education is both affordable and equitable.
As the new academic year approaches, schools across Delhi must adapt to these guidelines, ensuring compliance and supporting the department's efforts to create a more streamlined and fair educational landscape. This initiative is crucial to reducing educational disparities and promoting a unified curriculum for young learners in Delhi.