The National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) has implemented significant reforms in teacher education programs, introducing new regulations for Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) and Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed) courses that came into effect in 2025. These changes align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and aim to enhance the quality of teacher training across India.​

Key Changes in B.Ed and D.El.Ed Programs

Ban on Dual Enrollment

One of the most significant changes is the prohibition on pursuing B.Ed and D.El.Ed simultaneously. Previously, many students enrolled in both programs concurrently to save time and resources. However, NCTE observed that this practice compromised educational quality as students could not fully dedicate themselves to either program.​

Under the new rules, candidates must choose one course at a time, allowing them to focus entirely on their training. This ensures that aspiring teachers receive comprehensive instruction and practical experience in their chosen field.​

Mandatory Six-Month Internship

NCTE has extended the mandatory internship period for both B.Ed and D.El.Ed students to a minimum of six months. Previously, the internship duration was shorter, which limited exposure to real classroom environments.​

The extended internship requires students to engage in active teaching, lesson planning, and student assessment under the supervision of experienced educators. This hands-on training can only be conducted in NCTE-recognized schools.​

Accredited Institution Requirements

The new regulations mandate that only NCTE-accredited institutions can offer teacher education programs. Students can pursue these courses only from recognized institutions, and degrees from fake or non-accredited institutions will be considered invalid and may be cancelled.​

Restrictions on Online Learning

NCTE has imposed restrictions on fully online B.Ed and D.El.Ed programs. While some theoretical modules may be offered online, practical training and internships require physical presence at institutions. Students cannot complete entire courses through distance learning mode.​

Major Institutional Cleanup

In a significant move to improve quality, NCTE has derecognized 2,224 teacher training institutions across the country for non-compliance with regulations. This represents the largest action in NCTE’s history.​

The breakdown by region includes:

• Southern Region: 872 institutions

• Western Region: 686 institutions

• Northern Region: 637 institutions

• Eastern Region: 29 institutions​

These institutions failed to submit Performance Appraisal Reports (PARs) for 2021-22 and 2022-23 despite multiple notices and deadline extensions. Many were found to be operating only on paper without proper infrastructure, faculty, or classes.​

Impact on Current Students and Job Seekers

Bridge Course for B.Ed Teachers

NCTE has introduced a mandatory six-month bridge course for B.Ed-qualified teachers who were appointed as primary teachers between June 28, 2018, and November 28, 2023. This course, conducted by the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS), is designed to protect the employment of approximately 3-4 lakh primary teachers who face job insecurity.​

Teachers must complete this bridge course within one year to retain their positions. Failure to do so will result in termination of their appointments.​

New Employment Opportunities

The Ministry of Education has announced new employment rules for B.Ed and D.El.Ed degree holders effective January 1, 2025. The new guidelines include:​

• Age limit: 18-35 years (with 5-year relaxation for SC/ST)

• Minimum marks: 50% (45% for SC/ST)

• Language proficiency: Hindi and English

• Basic computer skills requirement

• Mandatory 6-month specialized training​

Alignment with NEP 2020

These reforms are part of the broader implementation of NEP 2020, which emphasizes:

Integrated Teacher Education Programs (ITEP)

NEP 2020 introduces 4-year Integrated Teacher Education Programmes combining subject specialization with education training. Over 13,000 teacher training institutes must transform into multidisciplinary institutions by 2030.​

National Professional Standards for Teachers (NPST)

NCTE has developed National Professional Standards for Teachers to define competencies at different career stages. These standards will inform career management, professional development, salary increases, and promotions based on performance rather than tenure.​

Quality Assurance Measures

The new regulations include:

• Stricter accreditation requirements

• Regular performance monitoring

• Online inspections with GPS tracking

• Cross-verification of faculty credentials​

Future Implications

Improved Quality Standards

The reforms aim to eliminate substandard teacher education institutions and ensure that future educators are better prepared for classroom challenges. The extended internship period and practical training requirements will produce more competent teachers.​

Teacher Shortage Considerations

While these quality measures are essential, they may temporarily impact teacher supply. NCTE has established an expert committee to assess teacher demand and supply across regions, particularly in rural and tribal areas.​

Professional Development Focus

The emphasis on continuous professional development (CPD) reflects NEP 2020’s vision of teaching as a lifelong learning profession. Teachers will need regular upskilling to meet 21st-century educational demands.​

Recommendations for Aspirants

For Current Students

Students currently enrolled in affected institutions should:

• Verify their institution’s recognition status on the NCTE website

• Consider transferring to recognized institutions if necessary

• Complete required internships at approved schools​

For Future Applicants

Prospective teacher education students should:

• Check institutional accreditation before admission

• Prepare for extended practical training requirements

• Focus on single program completion rather than dual enrollment

• Develop technological skills for modern teaching methods​

The new NCTE regulations represent a comprehensive overhaul of India’s teacher education system, prioritizing quality over quantity while ensuring that future educators are well-equipped to handle the challenges of modern classrooms. These changes, though initially disruptive, are expected to significantly improve the standard of teacher training and, ultimately, the quality of education in Indian schools.