New Delhi: The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has set up a dedicated team to design syllabi and textbooks on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students in Grades 11 and 12, the Ministry of Education announced.
In a statement provided in response to a question in Lok Sabha, the Ministry also highlighted that AI-based projects have already been integrated into the vocational education curriculum for Grade 6. These include activities related to Animation and Games, which make use of AI tools to enhance learning experiences.
“As part of the follow-up to NEP 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023, NCERT has constituted a Textbook Development Team to prepare AI syllabi and textbooks for Grades 11 and 12. Additionally, a project on Animation and Games, using AI tools, has been included in the vocational education textbook for Grade 6,” the Ministry stated.
The government has reiterated its focus on Artificial Intelligence and Computational Thinking (AI & CT) as core elements of future-ready education. According to the Ministry, the AI curriculum will be rolled out in all schools starting from Class 3 in the academic session 2026-27, in line with NEP 2020 and NCF-SE 2023 guidelines.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has already drafted a comprehensive curriculum for students from Classes 3 to 12. Foundational AI concepts will be introduced in lower grades, while advanced computational thinking and AI topics will become compulsory for students in Classes 9 and 10.
To strengthen AI literacy among students and educators, the government has launched SOAR (Skilling for AI Readiness), a national initiative aligned with NEP 2020, the National Programme on AI (NPAI) Skilling Framework, and the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision. SOAR aims to promote AI awareness, equip students with foundational AI skills, and ensure equitable access to AI education across regions.
The programme offers four National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF)-aligned modules, with three micro-credentials designed for students in Classes 6 to 12: (i) AI to be Aware, (ii) AI to Acquire, and (iii) AI to Aspire. Each module requires 15 hours of engagement, totaling 45 hours of AI learning.
The initiative is part of the broader effort to prepare students for a digitally empowered future and support inclusive growth through AI education.
