Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan hailed NCERT as a change leader on its 65th Foundation Day, urging it to adopt a reform-oriented, tech-driven role. Launching DIKSHA 2.0, he highlighted NCERT’s role in nurturing creativity, multilingual learning, and shaping young minds to achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday hailed the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) as a “change leader” in India’s education system, underlining its role in transforming teaching and learning methods to meet the aspirations of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Speaking at the 65th Foundation Day celebration of NCERT, Pradhan said the institution has been at the forefront of India’s education journey and will continue to shape the future by embracing reforms, technology, and global best practices. He called upon NCERT to play a pioneering role in igniting young minds through innovation and creativity, laying the foundation for a stronger and more knowledge-driven nation.
NCERT as a Pillar of Indian Education
Pradhan described NCERT as not just an institution but a “Gyan-Kumbh”, an iconic knowledge hub that has guided India’s educational framework since its inception. He said the organisation has been a pillar of India’s education system, shaping the destinies of generations with unparalleled commitment.
“NCERT is at the heart of our education system. It is a beacon of knowledge and a catalyst for change. As India moves forward to achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat, NCERT must take a leadership role by driving reforms in teaching, learning, and curriculum development,” Pradhan noted.
Call for a Reform-Oriented and Tech-Driven Approach
The minister stressed that the pathway to building a developed India by 2047 depends on nurturing critical and creative thinking among students. He urged NCERT to reimagine its role with a reform-oriented, tech-driven approach that aligns with the evolving needs of learners.
Pradhan further encouraged NCERT to embrace multilingualism to strengthen critical thinking and foster inclusivity. He emphasized that education must move beyond rote learning and instead focus on transforming knowledge into competency, equipping students with the skills required for the 21st century.
Launch of DIKSHA 2.0 and New Initiatives
Marking the occasion, Pradhan launched DIKSHA 2.0, an upgraded digital learning platform designed to enhance personalized and technology-driven education. The new version of DIKSHA is fully responsive and compatible with multiple devices, offering structured lessons, adaptive assessments, and AI-powered tools. Features such as “Read Aloud” and translation support in 12 Indian languages aim to make learning more inclusive and learner-centric.
Sharing feedback from students, Pradhan said DIKSHA has already begun transforming classrooms by empowering both teachers and learners with innovative tools. “With DIKSHA 2.0, we are not just delivering lessons but creating an ecosystem of interactive, student-centric learning that promotes creativity and collaboration,” he added.
Alongside this, Pradhan also released a book titled ‘Utkal Jananinkara Sujogya Santana’, showcasing the life and contributions of 100 great personalities of Odisha.
NCERT as a Driver of Viksit Bharat Vision
Pradhan expressed confidence that NCERT will continue to be a driver of educational reforms, bringing a paradigm shift in how teaching and learning are conducted in India. He reiterated that the vision of a developed India in the next two decades will be achievable only through education that nurtures curiosity, innovation, and problem-solving skills.
“As we aim for Viksit Bharat, we must prepare our Amrit Peedhi with not just knowledge but with competencies that allow them to lead in a globalized world. NCERT has the responsibility of creating this transformation,” the minister said.
An Institution for the Future
Extending his best wishes on NCERT’s 65th Foundation Day, Pradhan lauded its historic contribution and urged it to evolve with the times. He emphasized that with a renewed focus on technology, inclusivity, and global benchmarks, NCERT can continue to inspire generations and uphold its position as the backbone of India’s education ecosystem.
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“NCERT is not merely an academic body. It is a national treasure of wisdom, a guide for teachers, and a source of inspiration for students. Its journey so far has been remarkable, and its role in the years to come will be even more critical for the nation’s progress,” Pradhan concluded.
