UP Board to publish textbooks in English too

Prayagraj: For the benefit of classes IX to XII students of its English-medium schools, UP Board will publish NCERT textbooks in English from the 2026-27 academic session. The move is expected to benefit directly nearly 2.5 lakh students in UP who have long struggled with lack of affordable English-medium study material under the UP Board system.Non-availability of textbooks in English was one of the biggest problems faced by English-medium students in UP Board schools . Though classes in many schools are conducted in English medium, students are provided books in Hindi and they had to depend on costly books from private publishers.Officials said the new arrangement would ensure easy availability of low-cost NCERT-based English-medium textbooks covering subjects from High School and Intermediate syllabus for students of classes IX to XII studying in govt, aided and recognised unaided schools affiliated with the board.According to UP Board estimates, nearly 50 to 52 lakh students register every year for exams, out of which more than 1 lakh students pursue studies in English medium schools. Keeping the growing demand in mind, preparations have now begun for publication and distribution of books in English as well.Academic experts believe the decision will especially help students from rural areas and economically weaker families, who often struggle to purchase expensive books.

Board secretary Bhagwati Singh said the initiative would improve access to quality educational material and strengthen learning standards in UP Board schools. Officials believe the move would also encourage more students to opt for English-medium education in govt and aided schools without worrying about the high cost of books.