President Droupadi Murmu will confer the National Awards to Teachers (NAT) 2026 on 21 teachers and faculty members from higher educational institutions and polytechnics at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on Saturday, September 5, as part of the country’s Teachers’ Day observances.

The 21 awardees have been selected from central higher education institutions, state universities and polytechnic institutions for their contributions to teaching, research, innovation, outreach and other areas of academic work. The awards for higher education and polytechnics were introduced as separate categories in 2023, expanding the National Awards to Teachers beyond school education. 

21 Teachers Selected for National Awards

According to the Ministry of Education, the 2026 list includes 12 teachers and faculty members from central higher education institutions, five from state universities and four from polytechnics.

Among those from state universities, three are from government institutions and two are from private colleges. The polytechnic category comprises two government and two private institutions. (Press Information Bureau)

The awardees represent a wide range of disciplines, reflecting the breadth of India's higher education system.

The list includes Prof. Avlokita Agrawal of IIT Roorkee for Sustainable Architecture and Built Environment, Prof. Kirti Chandra Sahu of IIT Hyderabad for Chemical Engineering and Prof. Vinay Chamola of BITS Pilani for Electrical and Electronics Engineering.

Other awardees include faculty members from IIT Bhubaneswar, IIT Gandhinagar, IISER Bhopal, IIT Bombay, National Forensic Sciences University and IIT Kanpur. 

IISER Bhopal Faculty Among Awardees

Madhya Pradesh also features in this year's national recognition, with Prof. Sourav Datta of IISER Bhopal selected for the award in the discipline of Plant Sciences.

His selection places the Bhopal-based institute among the central higher education institutions represented in the 2026 National Awards to Teachers. 

The recognition comes as higher education institutions increasingly focus on research, innovation and interdisciplinary learning alongside conventional classroom teaching.

Selection Based on Teaching and Research

The Ministry said the awards recognise exemplary teachers and faculty members based on several parameters.

These include teaching-learning effectiveness, outreach activities, research and innovation, as well as sponsored research, faculty development programmes and consultancy-related teaching.

The selection process involved an initial evaluation by a Preliminary Search-cum-Screening Committee, followed by selection from the shortlisted nominees by a committee of jury. 

The nomination process was conducted online through the Rashtriya Puraskar Portal, with provisions for self, institutional and peer nominations under the Jan Bhagidari approach.

Higher Education Awards Expanded in 2023

The National Awards to Teachers were historically associated with school teachers. The government introduced dedicated categories for higher education institutions and polytechnics in 2023.

The expansion was aligned with the National Education Policy 2020, which emphasises creating a culture of excellence across India's education ecosystem and encourages recognition and incentives for outstanding educators. 

The higher education award framework covers technical and non-technical institutions and includes disciplines ranging from engineering and architecture to sciences, medicine, pharmacy, humanities, commerce and management. 

Teachers’ Day Celebrations in New Delhi

The award ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan is part of the wider Teachers’ Day programme being held across the country on September 5.

The government is separately honouring 48 school teachers with the National Teachers Awards 2026. President Murmu is also scheduled to confer those awards at Vigyan Bhawan. The school and higher education/polytechnic categories are distinct award streams. 

Teachers’ Day in India is observed annually on September 5 to mark the birth anniversary of former President, philosopher and educationist Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan.

Recognition of Educators Across Sectors

The 2026 awards underline the government's effort to recognise contributions across different levels of education, from school teaching to university research and technical education.

For higher education faculty, the award criteria place emphasis not only on classroom effectiveness but also on research, innovation, outreach and broader institutional contributions.

With 21 educators from higher education institutions and polytechnics being recognised this year, the ceremony is expected to highlight the role of faculty members in strengthening India's teaching and research ecosystem.

The awards also come at a time when institutions are adapting to the priorities of the National Education Policy 2020, including multidisciplinary learning, innovation, research and stronger links between education and society.

Former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan received a warm welcome from BJP and NDA MPs as he arrived at Parliament on Tuesday, making his first public appearance since stepping down from the post. As he got out of his vehicle at the Parliament complex, several party leaders gathered around him, raising slogans of “Dharmendra Pradhan Zindabad.” Pradhan acknowledged the greetings with a smile and waved at the media before entering the premises. The show of support came just two days after he resigned as education minister amid nationwide criticism over the NEET-UG paper leak controversy. In his resignation letter, Pradhan said his decision was driven by the interests of students and the need to protect the credibility of the education system. According to those present, the reception reflected the BJP leadership's public backing of one of its senior leaders despite the political storm surrounding his exit.

Pradhan's resignation followed weeks of protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination. Student groups and opposition parties had demanded accountability, arguing that the paper leak had shaken the confidence of lakhs of aspirants across the country. Following his resignation, the Union government assigned the additional charge of the Education Ministry to Pralhad Joshi, who already handles the Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and New and Renewable Energy portfolios. Officials indicated that the move was intended to ensure continuity in the ministry's functioning while the government deals with the fallout from the examination controversy. Meanwhile, videos of BJP MPs chanting slogans in support of Pradhan outside Parliament quickly circulated on social media, triggering political reactions from both supporters and critics.

Even after his resignation, several senior BJP leaders publicly praised Pradhan's contribution to the education sector. Union Home Minister Amit Shah credited him with playing a key role in implementing major education reforms, particularly the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also acknowledged his efforts to strengthen India's education system and promote educational reforms during his tenure. BJP leaders maintained that Pradhan's resignation was a voluntary decision reflecting accountability rather than political pressure. The opposition, however, continued to question the government's handling of the NEET-UG paper leak and demanded a broader investigation into the examination process. Political observers believe the growing anger among students and young voters may have influenced the government's decision, although no official statement has confirmed that assessment. With the Monsoon Session of Parliament underway, education reforms, examination security, and the NEET controversy are expected to remain central issues in the days ahead.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday described former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation as an example of placing national interest and students' welfare above political office, saying the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) considers the country and its youth more important than any position.

Reacting to Pradhan's resignation amid the controversy over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination, Shah said the decision reflected the BJP's commitment to accountability and public interest.

'Nation and Students Come First'

In a post on social media platform X, Shah said the Narendra Modi-led government respects the sentiments of students and remains committed to strengthening the integrity of India's examination system.

He said the government has adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards examination malpractices, including paper leaks, and reiterated that those found guilty would face strict legal action.

According to Shah, maintaining the credibility of competitive examinations remains one of the government's highest priorities.

Government Focused on Restoring Trust

The Home Minister said the Centre's objective is to safeguard the confidence of millions of students who prepare for competitive examinations through hard work and merit.

He stated that the government has already initiated several reforms to improve transparency, fairness and security in the examination process and would continue efforts to make the system more robust.

Praises Pradhan's Tenure

Shah also highlighted Dharmendra Pradhan's contribution to the education sector, saying significant progress had been made under his leadership in implementing the National Education Policy (NEP).

He credited the former minister with expanding PM SHRI Schools, promoting digital education, strengthening skill development initiatives and improving collaboration between educational institutions and industry.

According to Shah, these reforms were aimed at preparing India's education system for future challenges while making it more inclusive and student-centric.

Political Reactions Continue

Pradhan's resignation follows weeks of protests over the alleged NEET paper leak and examination irregularities.

The development has triggered sharp political reactions across party lines. While opposition parties have described the resignation as a victory for students' protests, the BJP has maintained that it reflects the government's commitment to accountability, institutional reforms and national interest.

The revised textbook, titled Exploring Society: India and Beyond, had already drawn public attention in recent weeks following controversy over a chapter that referred to corruption in the judiciary. That section was subsequently withdrawn after objections were raised, and NCERT recalled both digital and printed copies before issuing the updated edition.

Among the most discussed changes in the new version is the revised description of the Indian National Congress's position on Partition in 1947. The chapter India’s Long Road to Independence now states that Partition was widely opposed by the Congress and that whether accepting Partition was the only available option remains a matter of historical debate.

The revised text no longer includes an earlier passage that suggested Congress leaders were compelled to accept Partition amid widespread communal violence in the subcontinent.

In the previous edition, the textbook had stated that although Mahatma Gandhi and most Congress leaders opposed Partition, they ultimately accepted it as the only viable solution. The updated version presents the issue with greater emphasis on ongoing historical discussions surrounding the circumstances that led to the decision.

Another notable addition is the inclusion of a reference to Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, commonly known as Veer Savarkar. The revised text mentions that Savarkar had advocated the idea of Swaraj in 1925, expanding the discussion on demands for complete independence during the freedom struggle.

The change comes as debates over the representation of historical personalities in school textbooks continue to attract attention from academics, political groups and education experts.

The revised edition has also altered content related to World War II and the activities of Subhas Chandra Bose. References to Adolf Hitler and Nazi ideology that appeared in the earlier version have been removed.

Previously, the textbook had explained that Bose sought support from Hitler while forming military efforts against British rule and described the German leader’s racist Nazi ideology and expansionist ambitions that contributed to World War II.

In the updated version, the discussion has been shortened. It now states that Bose sought support from forces opposed to British rule, without specifically mentioning Hitler or Nazi ideology.

The revisions come after NCERT faced scrutiny over content included in the earlier edition. Following concerns raised before the Supreme Court regarding the chapter on judicial corruption, the council apologised and withdrew copies of the textbook pending review and correction.

The newly released edition contains additional editorial changes as part of that review process.

There have also been modifications to the list of contributors associated with the textbook. While the earlier version carried the names of 51 contributors, the revised edition lists 48. Reports indicate that the names of Michel Danino, Suparna Diwakar and Alok Prasanna Kumar are no longer included among the contributors to the updated textbook.

The changes have reignited discussions about how Indian history is presented in school curricula, particularly on subjects such as Partition, the freedom movement and the role of historical figures. Education experts say textbook revisions often generate debate because they shape how future generations understand major national events.

NCERT has not indicated whether further revisions are planned, but the latest update reflects the continuing effort to align school textbooks with the framework being implemented under the National Education Policy.

The decisions were taken as part of the state's efforts to address faculty shortages and improve academic administration in higher education institutions. Officials said the measures are expected to enhance the quality of teaching and ensure smoother implementation of education reforms envisioned under the National Education Policy.

One of the most important announcements is the recruitment of 700 assistant professors for government colleges across the state. For several years, many institutions have been functioning with a shortage of permanent faculty members, relying heavily on guest lecturers and temporary arrangements. The proposed recruitment drive is expected to provide much-needed academic support and improve student-teacher ratios in colleges.

The government has also decided to fill the posts of regular principals in colleges. A large number of institutions have been operating under interim or additional-charge arrangements, affecting administrative efficiency and long-term planning. Education officials believe that the appointment of regular principals will strengthen institutional leadership and improve governance at the college level.

The expansion of the National Education Policy is another key component of the government's latest decisions. The policy aims to bring structural reforms in the education sector by promoting multidisciplinary learning, skill development, flexibility in academic programs and greater use of technology in teaching and learning processes.

According to officials, the expansion of NEP-related initiatives is intended to align higher education institutions in Chhattisgarh with national education goals. Colleges are expected to gradually adopt reforms related to curriculum design, credit systems, vocational education and student-focused learning models.

The government has also indicated that concerns raised by guest faculty members will be examined. Guest lecturers have repeatedly sought better service conditions and greater job security, arguing that they play a crucial role in maintaining academic activities in institutions facing faculty shortages. Officials said the demands of guest faculty members are under consideration, although no final decision has been announced yet.

Education experts have welcomed the recruitment proposal, noting that faculty shortages remain one of the biggest challenges facing higher education institutions in many states. The addition of permanent teaching staff is expected to improve classroom instruction, research activities and academic outcomes.

The move comes amid growing emphasis on strengthening state universities and colleges to meet rising enrolment levels and changing educational requirements. With increasing demand for higher education, institutions have been under pressure to improve infrastructure, faculty strength and academic quality.

Political observers also view the announcement as an important governance initiative, particularly because education remains a key public concern. Recruitment of teaching staff and administrative reforms in colleges are likely to benefit students across urban and rural areas of the state.

The Higher Education Department is expected to release detailed guidelines regarding the recruitment process and implementation roadmap in the coming months. Aspirants awaiting teaching opportunities in government colleges are likely to closely monitor further announcements.

With the latest decisions, the Chhattisgarh government has signalled its intent to strengthen higher education through faculty recruitment, administrative reforms and wider implementation of the National Education Policy. The success of these initiatives, however, will depend on timely execution and effective implementation at the institutional level.