Quick answer
The NCERT full form is National Council of Educational Research and Training. NCERT is an autonomous organisation set up by the Government of India in 1961 to advise on school education. It develops the National Curriculum Framework, writes model textbooks used by CBSE and many state boards, trains teachers, and conducts educational research and surveys.
- NCERT stands for National Council of Educational Research and Training.
- It was set up in 1961 and is headquartered in New Delhi.
- It develops the National Curriculum Framework and NCERT textbooks.
- It does not run exams or affiliate schools; boards do that.
What does NCERT do?
- Develops the National Curriculum Framework (NCF), including the NCF for School Education 2023 and the foundational stage framework.
- Writes and publishes textbooks, workbooks, and teacher handbooks.
- Runs pre-service and in-service teacher education through its institutes.
- Conducts research and large surveys such as the National Achievement Survey.
- Develops digital content, including material for DIKSHA.
What are the units of NCERT?
NCERT works through constituent units, including the Regional Institutes of Education in several cities and the Central Institute of Educational Technology (CIET). States have their own SCERTs, which adapt NCERT frameworks and textbooks for state boards.
What is the difference between NCERT and CBSE?
| Aspect | NCERT | CBSE |
|---|---|---|
| Main role | Curriculum, textbooks, research, teacher training | Affiliation and examinations |
| Runs board exams | No | Yes, Class 10 and 12 |
| Affiliates schools | No | Yes |
| Relationship | Writes textbooks | Prescribes NCERT textbooks for most subjects |
How are NCERT textbooks used in schools?
CBSE prescribes NCERT textbooks for most subjects, and many state boards use or adapt them. Since NEP 2020, NCERT has been releasing new textbooks aligned with the NCF for School Education, starting with the foundational and preparatory stages. Teachers plan units and lessons around these books; see how to write a lesson plan.
What is the NCF?
The National Curriculum Framework sets the aims, stages, subjects, and assessment approach for school education. It follows NEP 2020 5+3+3+4 structure. Read the National Curriculum Framework guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the full form of NCERT?
National Council of Educational Research and Training.
When was NCERT established?
In 1961, by the Government of India.
Does NCERT conduct exams?
NCERT does not conduct board exams. It runs surveys such as the National Achievement Survey and some programmes of its own.
Are NCERT books free?
NCERT textbooks can be read and downloaded free from its official website. Printed copies are sold at low prices.
What is SCERT?
State Council of Educational Research and Training, the state counterpart of NCERT.
What is CIET?
Central Institute of Educational Technology, the NCERT unit for educational technology and digital content.
Who uses NCERT textbooks?
CBSE schools and many state board schools.