LUCKNOW: The Uttar Pradesh Board has announced important changes for textbooks used by students in Classes 9 to 12. For the academic year 2026-27 , the board will ensure that students get authorized and affordable textbooks on time. They have also warned of strict actions against schools, teachers, and publishers who use or sell unauthorized and expensive books.
In a significant step, the UP Board, also known as Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad (UPMSP), has directed publishers to send NCERT-based textbooks directly to all 75 districts of the state. This new system is designed to solve a long-standing problem. In previous years, official and low-cost books often faced delays, sometimes reaching schools only by July. This delay forced many students to buy costlier, unofficial books, which caused financial strain for families.
New Rules to Stop Unauthorised Books
Board Secretary Bhagwati Singh emphasized the board's new, firm stand. He explained, "In previous years, delays meant authorised and low-cost books reached schools only by July, forcing students to buy expensive and unauthorised materials. To stop this, the board has taken a strict approach this year."
The board will not tolerate any publisher printing or selling textbooks or study guides without a proper contract. Any publisher found doing so will face severe penalties. These penalties include a ban from working with the UP Board for three years and possible legal action. This rule aims to protect students from low-quality or incorrect study materials.
The responsibility also extends to schools and their staff. Principals and teachers must ensure that only board-approved textbooks are used in classrooms. If any institution or teacher is found using unauthorized books, they will face disciplinary measures as per school rules. Mr. Singh reiterated, "All schools must teach only from authorised textbooks. Any institution found using unauthorised books will face action as per the rules."
Timely Availability of Textbooks
To avoid any delays for the upcoming 2026-27 session, the UP Board started the textbook publication process early, beginning in October . This proactive approach means that students will not have to wait for their study materials.
By April 1, 2026 , markets across Uttar Pradesh will have a wide range of new textbooks available. This includes 70 NCERT textbooks covering 36 different subjects for students in Classes 9, 10, 11, and 12. These books will follow the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) syllabus, ensuring a standard of education.
Additionally, the UP Board will also publish its own specific books. There will be 12 UP Board books in subjects such as Hindi, Sanskrit, and Urdu. These books are crucial for students preparing for their board examinations in these core regional language subjects.
Details of Textbooks for 2026-27 Session:
| Book Type | Number of Books | Subjects | Classes |
| NCERT Textbooks | 70 | 36 subjects (General Curriculum) | Classes 9 to 12 |
| UP Board Specific Books | 12 | Hindi, Sanskrit, Urdu (Regional Language Focus) | Classes 9 to 12 |
Benefits for Students and Families
These new rules and early preparation will greatly benefit students and their families. Firstly, it ensures that every student has access to official, high-quality textbooks. Secondly, by making sure these books are affordable and available on time, the board reduces the financial burden on parents. This initiative promotes fair and equal educational opportunities for all students across Uttar Pradesh.
Students and parents are advised to purchase textbooks only from authorized vendors starting April 2026 to ensure they get the correct and approved materials for their studies.
