NCERT official update on textbook rollout for academic session 2026-27

On 17 March 2026, an official advisory was issued by the secretary of NCERT related to the new books release. It announced that NCERT taken on the development of new textbooks making a significant step in implementing the reforms proposed by NEP 2020 and in alignment with the recommendations of NCF-SE 2023.

The release of new textbooks will take place for Class 1 to 8, while also outlining a phased implementation plan for Classes 9 to 11 for the academic session 2026-27.

NEP 2020 Impact: Why NCERT is Revising Textbooks

The revision in the NCERT textbooks is an ongoing effort to connect school education with the broader reform goal under NEP 2020 with the goal to make education more relevant, and flexible for the students.

Keeping the agenda in mind, the development emphasizes competency-based learning, conceptual clarity and reduced content load. With this, NCERT aims to make education more application-focused and aligned with real-world skills.

NCERT New Books Availability: Class 1-11

As per the official advisory, NCERT has begun the rolling of the new textbooks for the academic session 2026-27, with separate implementation plans for Class 1-2, 9 and 10-11.

Grade 1-8: New NCERT textbooks are fully developed and are now available in both, print and digital forms. For one related updates, you can check NCERT News section.
Grade 9: Fresh NCERT textbooks are still under development and will be introduced for use from the academic session 2026-27. Draft syllabi based on NCF-SE 2023 for Class 9 have already been uploaded on the NCERT website for reference and feedback.
Grade 10-11: Existing textbooks will be used for Grade 10 and 11 for the upcoming academic session 2026-27, and new NCERT textbooks will be released for the next academic session i.e., 2027-28.

Note: Before teachers start with teaching with the NEW NCERT textbooks, ensure prerequisite learning of students is addressed. Additionally, smooth implementation of the transition should be ensured by all the stakeholders.

Conclusion

Overall, the phased release reflects NCERT's balanced approach to introduce change and implement the vision of NEP 2020. By introducing changes in stages, and facilitating time for the stakeholders to adapt, NCERT is ensuring a smooth transition towards a holistic education system. The coming academic sessions will be crucial in determining how effectively these reforms translate into classroom learning across the schools.

FAQs

Q1. What is the NCERT textbook rollout for 2026-27?

Ans. NCERT has introduced new textbooks for Classes 1-8 and announced a phased rollout for Classes 9-11 starting from 2026-27.

Q2. Are new NCERT books available for all classes?

Ans. No, new textbooks are currently available for Classes 1-8. Class 9 books are under development, while Classes 10-11 will get new books from 2027-28.

Q3. When will Class 9 NCERT textbooks be introduced?

Ans. New Class 9 textbooks are expected to be implemented from the academic session 2026-27.

Q4. How will the new NCERT textbooks affect board exam patterns?

Ans. While immediate changes may be gradual, the new textbooks aligned with the NEP 2020 are expected to shift exams towards competency-based and application-oriented questions over time.

Q5. Where can students access the new NCERT Class 8 textbooks online?

Ans. Students can access digital versions of the new books on the official NCERT website.