The Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSE&L), under India’s Ministry of Education, will introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Computational Thinking (CT) for students from Class 3. The new curriculum begins in the academic session 2026–27 . This initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and falls under the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF SE) 2023.
AI and CT will integrate with existing school subjects. The curriculum aims to foster learning, thinking, and teaching, expanding towards the concept of “AI for Public Good.” Officials state this step ensures the ethical use of AI to solve complex challenges by embedding the technology from foundational stages.
Curriculum Development and Timeline
The Ministry of Education confirmed that a comprehensive AI and CT curriculum is under development. This process includes designing the curriculum, allocating necessary time within the school schedule, and creating essential handbooks and digital learning materials. The target completion for these resources is December 2025 .
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will lead this development. A Coordination Committee, formed under the NCF SE, will ensure the seamless integration, structured delivery, and quality assurance of the new content across schools.
Teacher Training and Support
To support the effective integration of AI and CT in classrooms, the Ministry will conduct extensive teacher training programs. The National Initiative for School Heads’ and Teachers’ Holistic Advancement (NISHTHA) will provide both digital and offline courses.
NISHTHA training modules will include components on effective lesson design, the practical use of AI-based learning resources, and the ethical considerations surrounding technology. These programs aim to equip educators with the skills needed to deliver the new curriculum effectively.
Expert Committee and Stakeholder Consultation
The CBSE has established an expert committee to specifically develop the AI and CT framework. Karthik Raman of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras chairs this committee. His leadership will guide the structure and content of the new educational modules.
A stakeholder consultation was held on October 29, 2025 . This meeting brought together key education bodies, including the DoSE&L, CBSE, NCERT, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS), and various state and union territory education departments. External experts also participated in the consultative process to ensure a broad and informed approach.
Vision for AI Education
Secretary (School Education) Sanjay Kumar addressed the consultation. He stated that education in AI should be treated as a basic, universal skill. Kumar linked this skill to “The World Around Us” (TWAU), emphasizing its relevance in daily life.
Kumar stressed that the new framework must remain broad-based, inclusive, and adaptable. This approach ensures it can respond to evolving educational requirements and rapid technological advancements. Embedding AI from Class 3 marks a significant step towards preparing students for a technology-driven future.