Centre allocates Rs. 6,000 crore for higher education textbooks in Indian languages including Urdu
The Central government has allocated Rs. 6,000 crore for higher education textbooks in Indian languages, including Urdu. MANUU has been appointed the nodal agency to develop 2.5 lakh textbooks under the NEP, involving 4.5 lakh teachers and experts nationwide.
Published Date - 12 February 2026, 04:15 PM
Hyderabad: The Central government has allocated Rs. 6,000 crore in the forthcoming financial year for the preparation of higher education textbooks in various Indian languages, including Urdu, said Dr. Chandan Srivastava, Academic Coordinator, Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti (BBS).
Addressing a workshop for Urdu authors at Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU) here, Dr. Srivastava said the government”s initiative is aimed at producing 2.5 lakh academic books.
Under the NEP, the government entrusted BBS with the task of textbook preparation in Indian languages for higher studies, he said, adding that the MANUU has been designated as the nodal agency for developing high-quality Urdu textbooks. The scheme involves 4.5 lakh teachers and experts from over one thousand institutions and focuses on the development of interactive e-textbooks.
MANUU Vice Chancellor Prof. Syed Ainul Hasan said the NEP provides a conducive academic environment and emphasized the importance of understanding Indian Knowledge Systems. Aligarh Muslim University Department of English Prof. Vibha Sharma described Urdu as a democratic and inclusive language and an integral part of India’s soul.