NCERT Turns 65: Dharmendra Pradhan Unveils DIKSHA 2.0, Urges Tech-Driven Reforms

The event, attended by eminent dignitaries including Shri Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education and Literacy, Prof. Dinesh Prasad Saklani, Director of NCERT, and Dr. Sreedhara Panicker Somanath, former ISRO Chairman, marked the launch of transformative initiatives, including DIKSHA 2.0 and a book celebrating 100 great personalities of Odisha, *Utkal Jananinkara Sujogya Santana*.

Describing NCERT as a “Gyan-Kumbh” (a fountain of knowledge), Shri Pradhan lauded its pivotal role in shaping generations of students since its inception in 1961. He emphasised NCERT’s responsibility to lead educational reforms by adopting global best practices and fostering critical and creative thinking among students to build a *Samridhh Bharat* (Prosperous India) by 2047. “NCERT is not just an institution; it is at the heart of India’s educational system, driving nation-building through knowledge,” he said.

A highlight of the event was the launch of DIKSHA 2.0, an upgraded, device-responsive digital platform designed to revolutionise learning. Featuring structured lessons, adaptive assessments, and AI-powered tools like Read Aloud and text translation in 12 Indian languages, DIKSHA 2.0 aims to provide personalised education and empower both students and teachers. Pradhan shared inspiring feedback from students benefiting from the platform, underscoring its potential to transform teaching and learning.

The Minister also stressed the importance of multilingualism to foster critical thinking in the *Amrit Peedhi* (the generation of India’s golden era). He urged NCERT to shift its focus from rote learning to competency-based education, aligning with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Additionally, the release of *Utkal Jananinkara Sujogya Santana* highlighted NCERT’s efforts to celebrate regional contributions to India’s cultural and intellectual heritage.

The event, attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Education and NCERT, also featured remarks from dignitaries like Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar, Chairperson of UGC, and Prof. J. S. Rajput, former NCERT Director. Their presence underscored NCERT’s significance as a cornerstone of India’s educational framework.

As NCERT embarks on its next chapter, Pradhan’s call for a reform-oriented, tech-driven approach sets the stage for the institution to lead India’s education system into a future of innovation and inclusivity.