Science and technology · GS3.6, GS2.5 · 2026-10-26 · 2 min read · 2026-10-26-am

NCERT Launches 20-Hour AI Ethics Module for Classes 9-12

NCERT has introduced a 20-hour activity-based module on computational thinking and artificial intelligence for students of classes 9 to 12, focusing on AI concepts, ethical use, and detecting deepfakes. This curriculum update is significant for UPSC aspirants as it highlights the integration of AI ethics in education, reflecting broader governance and technological adaptation challenges.

NCERT's new AI module educates secondary students on AI fundamentals, ethical boundaries, and responsible technology use including deepfake detection.

Why is this in the news?

On October 25, 2026, NCERT released a 20-hour introductory AI and computational thinking module for classes 9 to 12 developed with IIT Madras and IIT Jodhpur.

[1] The Hindu · Secondary

What does the NCERT AI ethics module cover?

  • Module content. The module covers AI concepts, applications, limitations, data privacy, ethical boundaries, misinformation, fairness, digital safety, and detecting deepfakes.
  • Learning approach. It uses activity-based, experiential learning through discussions, practical exercises, experimentation, and reflection to promote critical thinking and problem-solving.
  • Target students. Designed for students with no prior AI knowledge, it aims to build careful, confident, creative, and responsible users and evaluators of AI.

[1] The Hindu · Secondary

Why is this AI module important for education and governance?

  • Ethical AI use. The module emphasizes ethical and safe AI use, reinforcing human judgment, creativity, and ethical responsibility as central to learning.
  • Addressing misinformation. It trains students to critically verify AI-generated information and detect deepfakes, which is crucial in combating misinformation.
  • Inclusive participation. Activities can be conducted with or without digital devices, ensuring accessibility across diverse school contexts.

[1] The Hindu · Secondary

Key numbers

FigureWhat it measuresSource
20-hourDuration of the AI and computational thinking module for classes 9 to 12

[1] The Hindu · Secondary

Back to basics: Artificial Intelligence and Computational Thinking

Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to computer systems that can perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence, such as learning and problem-solving. Computational Thinking is a systematic approach to solving problems using concepts fundamental to computer science, including decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithm design. Understanding these concepts helps students critically evaluate AI applications and their ethical implications.

Practice: MCQ, Mains and revision

Prelims MCQ

Consider the following statements about the NCERT AI ethics module introduced for classes 9 to 12: 1. The module was developed in consultation with IIT Madras and IIT Jodhpur. 2. It requires students to have prior knowledge of AI before starting the course.

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 only
  3. Both 1 and 2
  4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer and trap

Answer: (a). Statement 2 is incorrect because the module is designed for students with no prior AI knowledge.

Mains question (15 marks)

Examine the significance of introducing AI ethics education at the school level in the context of governance and technology adaptation.

Examine: Discuss how AI ethics education at the school level contributes to responsible technology use and governance.

Intro: AI ethics education at the school level prepares students to navigate emerging technologies responsibly.

  • The NCERT module promotes critical thinking, creativity, and ethical responsibility among young learners.
  • It addresses challenges like misinformation and data privacy by teaching detection of deepfakes and safe AI use.
  • Inclusive design ensures accessibility across diverse educational contexts, fostering equitable technology literacy.

Conclusion: Integrating AI ethics in education supports informed citizenship and ethical governance in a digital age.

Quick revision

Who developed the NCERT AI ethics module for classes 9 to 12?
NCERT developed it in consultation with IIT Madras and IIT Jodhpur.
What is the duration of the AI ethics module introduced by NCERT?
The module is 20 hours long.
What key ethical issues does the NCERT AI module address?
It addresses data privacy, misinformation, fairness, digital safety, and ethical AI use.

Sources

  1. [1] The Hindu: Ethical boundaries to detecting deepfakes: NCERT introduces 20-hour AI module for classes 9-12 · 2026-10-25 · newspaper