UP Board revamps textbook distribution; ensures NCERT books reach students before new session

In a major step to improve the accessibility and affordability of learning materials, the Uttar Pradesh Board of Secondary Education has, for the first time, directed publishers to supply NCERT-based textbooks directly to all 75 districts of the state. This new arrangement, introduced for the 2026–27 academic session, is expected to benefit over one crore students studying in Classes 9 to 12 across more than 28,000 UP Board-affiliated schools.

Under the revised system, publishers will now be responsible for direct distribution of textbooks, replacing the previous practice where local retailers managed procurement. Officials said this move aims to ensure faster and smoother delivery of books to schools and markets.

“This early start in the publication and supply process, nearly five months ahead of schedule, will ensure that textbooks reach the market well before the new academic year begins on April 1,” an official stated.

To encourage wider availability, the Board has also introduced a 20% commission for local retailers, motivating them to stock and sell official NCERT-based books. This step, officials said, will help curb the sale of costly, unauthorised alternatives, which students were often forced to buy due to delays in previous years.

Confirming the new arrangement, UP Board Secretary Bhagwati Singh said it was the first time such a provision had been included in the Board’s tender process. For the upcoming academic year, the Board will publish 70 NCERT-licensed textbooks across 36 subjects, along with 12 additional titles in Hindi, Sanskrit, and Urdu.

The UP Board’s proactive approach also places it ahead of the Basic Education Department, which typically begins its textbook tendering by November or December. Earlier, UP Board tenders were floated as late as February or March, resulting in delays that often extended into July.

This initiative marks the first time in nearly a decade that students will receive official NCERT textbooks before the start of the academic session — a move that promises to make education both timely and affordable for millions of learners across Uttar Pradesh.