Sibal for common maths and science curricula across India

He asked the heads of the school boards from across the country assembled there to discuss the idea and expressed hope that they would come up with a road map. He also reminded the gathering that in order to ensure genuine equivalence for these subjects, the quality of teachers will also have to be ensured.

Sibal also emphasised that at the same time, the country needs diversity in the teaching of subjects such as geography, history, and environment which are specific to different regions. He said that preserving this diversity should be encouraged, as a result of which different students bring to the table unique experiences, making India a "melange of uniqueness".

He also pointed out that the current system of education is narrow with few choices for children. Skill development was needed with boards being able to give degrees in Music, Mechanics, Art etc, he added.{mospagebreak}

The minister reiterated the need for "de-stressing" the education system and attempts must be made to move to a grading system. The minister said if the CBSE schools till class XII, replace Class X boards with Continuous Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE), a paradigm shift will be seen in teaching.

He said that a move towards CCE may prove tough for teachers, but would be much simpler for students. However, he admitted a good CCE system would take time.

S.C. Khuntia, joint secretary in the ministry's School Education department, said six months of precious time of teaching in schools is lost due to the class X boards as all concentration is on preparing for them.