On September 1, 2025, Union Education Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan marked a significant milestone in India’s educational landscape by inaugurating the 65th Foundation Day of NCERT and launching a suite of transformative educational initiatives, including Diksha 2.0. This momentous event was held in the presence of eminent dignitaries and highlighted NCERT’s central role in nurturing generations of Indian students and shaping the nation’s future.
NCERT: The Pillar of Indian Education
From its establishment, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has been at the forefront of education, revolutionising teaching and learning processes across the country. Shri Pradhan, while addressing the gathering, referred to NCERT as a “Gyan-Kumbh”—a fountain of knowledge—celebrating its unwavering dedication and unparalleled contributions to nation-building. The presence of distinguished personalities such as Shri Sanjay Kumar, Secretary, DoSEL, Ministry of Education; Shri Chamu Krishna Shastry, Chairman, Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti; Prof. Dinesh Prasad Saklani, Director, NCERT; and more, further underscored the occasion’s significance.
The Vision for a Tech-Driven, Reform-Oriented NCERT
During the celebrations, the minister called upon NCERT to embrace a new reform-orientated and tech-driven avatar. Highlighting the necessity for global best practices, Shri Pradhan insisted that the institution must lead transformational changes in Indian education by continuously evolving and adopting emerging technologies. He envisions NCERT not just as an educational authority but as a change leader, propelling the nation toward a Samridhh Bharat (Prosperous India) by 2047 through the cultivation of competence, creativity, and critical thinking skills among students.
Emphasis on Multilingualism and Critical Thinking
A key takeaway from Shri Pradhan’s address was the urgent need to foster multilingualism as a route to enhanced critical thinking. The minister encouraged NCERT to promote education in multiple languages, asserting that such diversity is crucial for the all-round development of the “Amrit Peedhi”, or India’s youth. By leveraging the nation’s linguistic richness, students can broaden their perspectives, develop stronger analytical skills, and engage more effectively with knowledge, transforming learning into true competency.
Launch of Diksha 2.0: The Next Evolution in Digital Learning
One of the event’s highlights was the official launch of Diksha 2.0, the advanced version of India’s renowned digital learning platform. Diksha 2.0 represents a significant leap forward, offering a range of features designed to make education more accessible, adaptive, and engaging:
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Fully responsive interface, compatible with multiple devices;
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Structured lessons for diverse curricula and learning needs;
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Adaptive assessments tailored to individual learning paths;
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AI-powered tools, including Read Aloud for content accessibility;
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Real-time translation of text files into 12 major Indian languages, supporting inclusivity and linguistic flexibility.
Shri Pradhan shared feedback directly from students who have already benefitted from DIKSHA, emphasising how these upgrades are fostering learner-specific education and enabling both teachers and students to achieve their fullest potential.
New Book Release: Celebrating Odisha’s Great Personalities
At the same event, Shri Pradhan released a special book titled ‘Utkal Jananinkara Sujogya Santana’, honouring the life and contributions of 100 notable personalities from Odisha. This publication stands as a testament to the richness of Odisha’s heritage and its sons and daughters who have left an indelible mark on various fields, further inspiring students toward excellence.
NCERT’s Roadmap Toward an Empowered India
Shri Pradhan’s address served as both a review and a roadmap for NCERT’s future. He highlighted:
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The need to continuously adapt to rapid technological advancements;
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The importance of fostering creativity and critical thinking at every stage of schooling;
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The vision of turning acquired knowledge into practical competencies;
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The commitment to making students future-ready, capable of contributing to Samridhh Bharat 2047.
He also reiterated the government’s unwavering focus on strengthening educational institutions and building platforms that empower teachers, facilitate personalised learning, and harness India’s diversity as a unique educational advantage.
The Call to Action for Stakeholders
Acknowledging NCERT’s pivotal role, Shri Pradhan called upon educators, policymakers, and all stakeholders to work collaboratively, ensuring that the reforms initiated today become the foundation for India’s future educational excellence. He stressed the importance of community engagement, innovation in pedagogy, and the need for continuous professional development for teachers—central pillars for ushering in comprehensive educational transformation.
Conclusion: Towards a Bright Educational Future
The 65th Foundation Day of NCERT marks not just an anniversary but a turning point in India’s journey towards educational empowerment and innovation. With the launch of platforms like Diksha 2.0, the emphasis on multilingualism and critical thinking, and the introduction of resources celebrating India’s rich legacy, NCERT stands poised at the vanguard of a new era.
As India advances toward its vision of a Samridhh Bharat by 2047, the strengthened and reform-orientated NCERT, backed by visionary leadership and robust government initiatives, promises to empower generations of students. The collective efforts of educators, policymakers, and the community will ensure that Indian education remains globally competitive, inclusive, and future-focused—lighting the way for a prosperous and enlightened nation.
