NCERT

NCERT is prominently known among students as an autonomous organization under Government of India that publishes textbooks for all subjects, for all classes (I-XII), in various languages. These books are followed as standard by almost all schools. However, the role of NCERT (full form - National Council of Educational Research and Training) is far more expansive and beyond. The NCERT was created in 1961 to assist state and central governments to help them in academic matters. There is a long list of activities that NCERT does. In fact, since its establishment, the organisation has significantly influenced school education in India. 
 

Scope of NCERT

The NCERT has several bodies through which it advises the Ministry of Education and Social Welfare.  They aid in the implementation of its various programs in the academic field. National Institute of Education, Central Institute of Education Technology, etc. are the extension arms of NCERT.

Objectives/ functions of NCERT

Besides textbook development, NCERT also implements educational policies. NCERT helps create and renew school curricula and instructional material for regular students and also differently-abled & special groups. NCERT also organizes various state level science exhibitions, photography contests and festivals for children.

NCERT focuses on bringing qualitative changes in school education and teacher training. NCERT imparts pre-service and in-service training of teachers in primary, elementary, secondary, and higher secondary levels.

NCERT conducts and supports educational research and training as well as provides financial aid and academic acumen to research programs.  NCERT aids scholars in the publication of their Ph.D. theses.

NCERT also interacts with various international organizations like UNESCO, UNICEF, etc. and arranges workshops for training of personnel from other countries.

To put it broadly, NCERT offers aid and development for the growth of students from class I (Elementary education) to the research scholars (the highest educational degree possible is PhD).