Education remained a major focus for the government this year, with several new schemes announced to improve learning access, skills, and innovation across the country. From school students to college
learners and young job seekers, these initiatives aim to support different stages of education.
The new announcements place strong attention on regional languages, digital learning, and hands-on skill training. Together, they show an effort to make education more practical, inclusive, and linked to future jobs.
Digital Books To Support Indian Languages
In the Union Budget 2025–26, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced the Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme. The scheme plans to provide digital textbooks and study material in different Indian languages for school and college students.
The idea behind the scheme is to help students learn in their own language and reduce language barriers in education. By offering books in digital form, students from different regions can access learning materials easily, even in remote areas.
This scheme also builds on earlier efforts like the ASMITA initiative, launched in July 2024 by the Ministry of Education and UGC. ASMITA focuses on creating and translating academic books into Indian languages. Over the next five years, around 22,000 books in 22 Indian languages are planned. The aim is to strengthen higher education in regional languages and support original academic writing.
PM Modi Launches Major Youth And Skill Programmes
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched youth-focused initiatives worth over Rs 62,000 crore at an event in New Delhi on October 4, 2025. While addressing students from ITIs and other institutions, he stressed the need for skill training and jobs for young people.
A key announcement was the PM-SETU scheme, with an investment of Rs 60,000 crore. Under this plan, 1,000 ITIs across India will be upgraded with modern machines, updated courses, digital tools, and start-up support. The goal is to prepare students for current industry needs and help them become job-ready.
The Prime Minister also opened 1,200 skill labs in Navodaya Vidyalayas and Eklavya Model Residential Schools. These labs will train students in areas like agriculture, IT, electronics, logistics, and automobiles. Special focus has been given to reaching students in rural and tribal areas.
More Focus On STEM And Innovation In Schools
The Union Budget 2025–26 also announced the expansion of Atal Tinkering Labs to 50,000 government schools over the next five years. These labs are designed to give students hands-on learning in science and technology.
Atal Tinkering Labs provide tools for coding, robotics, AI, 3D printing, and electronics. Students are encouraged to experiment, solve problems, and think creatively. The aim is to move beyond textbook learning and help students build real-world skills early on.
This push is expected to reduce the digital gap, support innovation, and prepare students for future careers in technology and startups.
