If you’ve gone through Indian school education, you’ve almost certainly studied from an NCERT textbook. But what exactly is NCERT, and why does it matter so much?
NCERT: The Basics
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is an autonomous organisation set up by the Government of India in 1961 to advise the Central and State governments on school education policy. Its core job is to research, design, and publish the textbooks used in CBSE-affiliated schools and referenced by many state boards.
What NCERT Actually Does
- Designs the National Curriculum Framework (NCF)
- Prepares and publishes model textbooks for Classes 1 to 12
- Produces teacher training material, journals, and educational kits
- Conducts and promotes research in school education
Why NCERT Textbooks Matter
NCERT books are written by subject experts, reviewed extensively, and designed to build conceptual understanding rather than encourage memorisation. Because CBSE exams are based directly on the NCERT curriculum, these textbooks form the backbone of board exam preparation — and, as we cover in our Class 10 and Class 12 guides, they’re just as important for competitive exams like JEE, NEET, and UPSC.
Where to Get Official NCERT Content
You can always verify current textbooks, syllabi, and exemplar problems directly on the official NCERT website.
Ready to find your textbook? Browse the full NCERT Book Catalog or head to our complete NCERT Books guide for class-wise and subject-wise downloads.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does NCERT stand for?
NCERT stands for the National Council of Educational Research and Training, the body responsible for designing school curricula and publishing textbooks across India.
When was NCERT established?
NCERT was established in 1961 by the Government of India to improve the quality of school education nationwide.
Is NCERT a government organisation?
Yes, NCERT is an autonomous organisation set up by the Government of India, functioning under the Ministry of Education.
Does NCERT set the CBSE syllabus?
Yes, NCERT designs the National Curriculum Framework that CBSE schools follow, and NCERT textbooks are the primary study material for CBSE exams.
Are NCERT books mandatory for CBSE students?
NCERT textbooks are the officially prescribed books for CBSE-affiliated schools, and board exam questions are based directly on this curriculum.
Do state boards also use NCERT books?
Many state boards reference or adapt NCERT textbooks alongside their own state curriculum, especially at the secondary and senior secondary level.
Who writes NCERT textbooks?
NCERT textbooks are written and reviewed by subject experts, university professors, and experienced educators appointed by NCERT.
Where can I download official NCERT books?
You can browse and download NCERT books by class and subject in our Book Catalog, or visit the official NCERT textbook portal directly.
Is NCERT the same as CBSE?
No. NCERT designs curriculum and publishes textbooks, while CBSE is the examining body that conducts board exams based on that curriculum.
How often does NCERT revise its textbooks?
NCERT periodically revises its textbooks to update content, remove outdated material, and align with the latest curriculum framework.
