On 25 October 2026, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) announced a new 20-hour introductory module on computational thinking (CT) and artificial intelligence (AI) for students in classes 9 to 12. The module will be part of the regular curriculum and will cover how machines learn from examples, the basics of AI, how to detect deepfakes and the ethical boundaries that protect personal data.

Key points

• 20-hour introductory module on CT and AI for classes 9-12.
• Topics include machine learning basics, deepfake detection, and data ethics.
• Module is part of NCERT’s effort to modernise the curriculum.
• Students will learn to recognise and counter deepfakes.
• Focus on ethical use of personal data.

Details

The new module is designed to give students a foundational understanding of artificial intelligence and its real-world applications. It will teach students how AI systems learn from data, how to identify manipulated media such as deepfakes, and the importance of respecting privacy and data protection laws. The curriculum will be integrated into the existing science and mathematics syllabi for grades 9 to 12.

What it means for students

Students preparing for competitive exams like JEE, NEET, or UPSC should note that this module will be part of the NCERT textbooks and study material. It is advisable to start familiarising with basic AI concepts and deepfake detection techniques early, as they may appear in exam questions on technology and ethics. The official NCERT website will provide the detailed syllabus and study guides once the module is released. Keep an eye on the NCERT portal for updates and download the module materials when available.

Source: The Hindu. Written for students by the Isolated Study News Desk from public reports. Always check the official website for final dates and details.