NCERT Speeds Up Class 9 Textbook Printing Amid Supply Shortage: How Students Can Access Free PDFs Online

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has said it is accelerating the printing and distribution of newly launched Class 9 textbooks after schools across the country reported shortages following the introduction of the NEP 2020-based curriculum. The council stated that it is working on a "war footing" to ensure books reach students and institutions as quickly as possible amid a temporary mismatch between demand and supply.

The revised textbooks, aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, were officially released earlier this month. NCERT also confirmed that digital versions of the books were uploaded on its official website nearly two weeks ago so that students can continue studies even while printed copies are being supplied.

NCERT says demand surged after rollout of new curriculum

In its official statement, NCERT acknowledged that the transition to the updated curriculum has led to a sudden spike in demand for Class 9 textbooks across states and schools.

"These books are being printed on a war-footing manner and distributed across the country. Due to the very large number of textbooks required, there is a temporary gap in supply and demand," the statement said.

The council added that officials are monitoring the supply situation closely and taking steps to stabilise distribution. "NCERT is closely monitoring the situation and working to bridge this gap. The supply of textbooks is being normalised," it stated.

Multiple channels activated for textbook distribution

To reduce inconvenience for students and schools, NCERT said it has expanded textbook distribution through several channels. Apart from its nationwide vendor network, textbooks are being sold through counters at regional centres and the headquarters in New Delhi.

The council also announced that sales counters at the headquarters are remaining open during weekends to improve availability during the transition phase.

Online access has also been widened. The textbooks are available through NCERT's official portal, along with DIKSHA and ePathshala platforms. In addition, books have been listed on selected e-commerce websites, while free downloadable PDF versions remain accessible online for students and teachers.

Bulk supply being sent directly to schools

NCERT further stated that it is directly supplying textbooks to schools and institutions placing bulk orders in an effort to speed up delivery.

Officials noted that temporary supply disruptions are common during large-scale curriculum changes, especially when new books are introduced nationwide at the same time. However, the council said systems have been put in place to resolve shortages quickly and maintain uninterrupted academic activity.

Social Science textbook yet to be released

The council confirmed that almost all revised Class 9 textbooks under the new curriculum framework have now been published. The only exception is the Social Science textbook, which NCERT said is currently in the final stage of preparation.

According to the council, the Social Science book will be released soon, completing the rollout of all Class 9 textbooks aligned with the NEP 2020 curriculum reforms.