The Ministry of Education granted the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) the status of a deemed university, opening the way for doctoral and research programmes.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) approved the application after an expert committee reviewed NCERT’s proposal.
NCERT, established in 1961 as an autonomous body, has played a central role in shaping school education policy in India. It develops textbooks, supplementary materials, journals, and newsletters, while also conducting research to improve teaching and learning standards. With its new status, NCERT will expand into higher education by offering PhD programmes and advanced research courses.
The Ministry directed NCERT to initiate steps for launching doctoral programmes and other academic courses. Officials emphasised that the move will strengthen research in school education and create opportunities for scholars to contribute to policy development.
NCERT’s constituent units will coordinate efforts to enhance the quality of school education nationwide. The institution will now have greater autonomy to design curricula, conduct research, and collaborate with universities and international organisations.
