The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has officially launched its dedicated WhatsApp Channel, marking a significant step in digital communication for India's premier educational body. This new platform aims to provide authentic, timely updates directly to educators, students, and stakeholders across the nation.
Comprehensive Educational Updates via WhatsApp
Through this official channel, NCERT plans to disseminate crucial information regarding curriculum revisions, textbook updates, teacher training programs, educational research findings, workshops, and various initiatives that promote quality, equity, and holistic education. The Council announced this development through its official social media presence on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing its commitment to transparent communication.
Expanding Digital Outreach in Education
This move represents NCERT's continued efforts to leverage technology for educational outreach. Previously, the council had launched interactive programs for students, including initiatives to enhance mathematical skills through artificial intelligence. The WhatsApp Channel is expected to complement these digital efforts by providing a direct, verified source of information to millions of users across India.
Simultaneous Crackdown on Textbook Piracy
In related developments, NCERT has been actively collaborating with law enforcement agencies to combat the illegal printing and distribution of pirated textbooks. Recently, in coordination with the Crime Branch of Delhi Police, NCERT officials participated in a raid at a printing facility in Village Jawli, Loni, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.
Major Seizure of Pirated Materials
During this operation, authorities seized approximately 32,000 pirated NCERT textbooks covering various classes and subjects. The raid also resulted in the recovery of two printing machines, aluminum printing plates, paper rolls, and printing ink, indicating a large-scale unauthorized printing operation. This action was initiated based on intelligence developed from an earlier case registered under FIR No. 336/2025 on November 11, 2025.
NCERT's Publication Division officials were present during the raid and provided technical assistance for identifying and verifying the pirated materials. The Council has reiterated that unauthorized printing, distribution, or sale of NCERT textbooks constitutes a punishable offense under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Copyright Act of 1957.
Organizational Challenges Amid Expansion
Despite these proactive measures, NCERT continues to face significant organizational challenges. According to data tabled in the Rajya Sabha on December 17, the council is currently functioning with more than half of its sanctioned posts vacant. Of the total sanctioned strength of 2,844 positions across NCERT headquarters, regional institutes, and departments, only 1,219 positions are currently filled.
Staffing Shortages Across Categories
This leaves 1,625 posts vacant across Group A, B, and C categories. This information was shared by the Ministry of Education in response to an unstarred question by Rajya Sabha MP Samirul Islam, which sought details on vacancies, contractual appointments, and permanent recruitment at NCERT over the last five years.
The launch of the WhatsApp Channel represents NCERT's commitment to improving communication and accessibility despite these organizational constraints. By embracing digital platforms, the Council aims to enhance its reach and effectiveness in promoting quality education across India.
