KALASETU Portal Submission: Art-Integrated Project (AIP) Details for 2025-26

This notice is to inform all affiliated schools about the mandatory submission of details regarding the Art-Integrated Project (AIP) for the academic session 2025-26¹. As per CBSE Circular no. Acad-33/2020 dated May 14, 2020, the Art-Integrated Project work is a compulsory component for students in Classes 1 to 10, forming part of the Subject-Enrichment activities under Internal Assessment².

In compliance with CBSE Circular no. Acad-43/2025 dated July 10, 2025, schools are requested to submit the necessary AIP details³. This submission must be done through the KALASETU Portal, which is accessible on the official CBSE website, www.cbse.gov.in, via the link https://cbseit.in/cbse/web/ArtEdu/Landing Page.aspx⁴.

The submission window for the Art-Integrated Project details will open on December 1, 2025, and will close on January 31, 2026⁵. All schools are urged to complete this process within the specified timeframe. Should you have any queries regarding this submission process, please write to the Associate Professor & Additional Director (Academics) at [email protected] or contact them by phone at 011-24050618⁶.

The KALASETU Portal is the official online platform of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) used to manage and report the implementation of Art-Integrated Project (AIP) work across its affiliated schools

The Art-Integrated Project (AIP) is a pedagogical approach mandated by the CBSE for students in Classes I to X. It is designed to use various forms of Indian art and culture—visual (like painting), performing (like dance), and literary—as a tool for teaching and learning concepts across all academic subjects, such as Science, Mathematics, and Social Science. This initiative is a part of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s focus on experiential and holistic education, aiming to make learning joyful, bridge the gap between education and culture, and foster national integration through the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ program. For assessment, particularly in Classes IX and X, the AIP is a compulsory component of the Subject Enrichment activity under Internal Assessment, and the marks contribute to the final results.

CBSE Science Exhibition 2025-26!

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is back with its annual Science Exhibition for the 2025-26 academic session, and it’s your chance to shine! This event is a platform for students to demonstrate their knowledge by connecting new ideas to existing scientific concepts.

Exhibition Details and Important Dates

The exhibition will take place in two stages: first at the

Regional Level, followed by the National Level. These events will be held between October 2025 and January 2026.

The online registration window is from September 3, 2025, to September 26, 2025. All participating schools must register online, pay the fee, and submit project details during this period. The last date for registration and fee submission is September 26, 2025.

Theme and Sub-Themes

This year’s theme is “STEM for Viksit and Atmanirbhar Bharat.” You can choose to develop a project based on one of the following sub-themes:

• Sustainable agriculture
• Waste management and alternatives to plastics
• Green energy
• Emerging technologies
• Recreational mathematical modellings
• Health and hygiene
• Water conservation and management

Who Can Participate?

The exhibition is open to two categories of students:

• Category I: Classes 6 to 8
• Category II: Classes 9 to 11

Each school can register a maximum of two teams. A team consists of up to two students from the same category and one mentor science teacher. Once a team is registered, the names of the students and the mentor teacher cannot be changed. Similarly, the selected sub-theme and project title are final and cannot be changed later.

Project Criteria

Your project can be a study based on investigation, an application of basic scientific principles, or a new solution or design for a problem. It is important that you use eco-friendly materials when preparing your exhibits.

Projects will be assessed on several criteria, including:

• Creativity and imagination (20%)
• Originality and innovativeness (15%)
• Scientific thought/principle/approach (15%)
• Technical skills and workmanship (15%)
• Educational value and utility for society (15%)
• Economics, portability, and durability (10%)
• Presentation and display effectiveness (10%)

What’s in it for You?

The top fourteen exhibits from each regional venue will be selected to participate in the National Level Exhibition. The best entries at the national level will receive awards and recognition. Winners may also be considered for entry into the Rashtriya Bal Vaigyaanik Pradarshani 2026, organized by NCERT, and may even get direct entry to the IRIS Science Fair 2025-26.

This is a fantastic opportunity to bring your scientific ideas to life and get recognized for your hard work. Encourage your peers, collaborate with your mentor teacher, and get ready to showcase your project!

For more information and resources, please find the link to official notification https://cbseacademic.nic.in/web_material/Circulars/2025/63_Circular_2025.pdf

CBSE Heritage India Quiz 2025: A Celebration of Culture

The CBSE Heritage India Quiz 2025 aims to raise awareness and appreciation for India’s rich cultural heritage among students. This year’s theme, “Heritage through Vibrant Festivals of India,” highlights the importance of preserving the country’s diverse cultural heritage through its many festivals and traditional knowledge systems.

Here are the key details for interested schools and students:

Who can participate?

·        The quiz is open to all CBSE-affiliated schools in India and abroad.

·       Students from classes IX to XII are eligible to participate.

·       Each school must form a team of three students, selected internally, to compete in the Online Test.

Registration Details

·        Schools can register online through the official CBSE websites: www.cbse.nic.in and www.cbseacademic.nic.in.

·       The registration fee is ₹1500 per team, which must be paid through the online payment gateway⁷. No other payment methods will be accepted.

·       The last date for online registration is September 30, 2025.

·       Once a school submits the online registration form, the details entered cannot be changed. Additionally, no requests to change team members will be accepted after the registration process is complete.

Quiz Format & Stages

The quiz consists of three stages:

1.     Stage 1: Online Test

o   This will be a 50-minute computer-based test with 60 multiple-choice questions.

o  The test will be conducted on a specific date and time in October 2025.

o  Schools must have a seamless broadband internet connection in their computer labs for the test.

o  There is no negative marking for incorrect answers.

o  In the event of a tie, the team that completes the test in the minimum time will be selected.

o  The top six teams from each cluster will be selected for Stage 2.

2.    

Stage 2: Cluster Round

o   The top six teams from each cluster will participate in an online cluster round in November 2025.

o  This round will be conducted via video conferencing.

o  The winning team from each cluster round will advance to the Semi-finals in Delhi.

3.    

Stage 3: Semi-finals and National Final

o   These rounds are tentatively scheduled for December 2025 in Delhi.

o  The qualifying teams from the cluster rounds will be divided into four groups.

o  The winner from each group will qualify for the final round.

o  Domestic airfare (economy class) for the shortest route will be reimbursed for the three students and one teacher escort for teams that qualify for the National semi-finals.

Prizes and Certificates

·        Merit certificates will be awarded to all participants in the semi-finals and finals.

·       The winning team will receive a prize of ₹25,000 and a Rolling Trophy.

·       The second-prize winning team will receive ₹15,000, and the third-prize winner will get ₹10,000.

·       There are also cash prizes for teams placing fourth in the final and for teams placing second through fifth in the semi-finals.

For further details, schools can visit the CBSE Academic website and refer to Circular No. Acad-60/2025.

Link to Official Notification : https://cbseacademic.nic.in/web_material/Circulars/2025/60_Circular_2025.pdf

An Opportunity for Young Innovators: Vidyarthi Vigyan Manthan (VVM) 2025-26

We are thrilled to announce a fantastic opportunity for students to explore their passion for science. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has shared a circular regarding the Vidyarthi Vigyan Manthan (VVM) 2025-26 program, a science talent search for “New India Using Digital Devices”. This initiative is designed to foster a love for science and technology and to highlight the significant contributions of India in the field.

Who Can Participate?

This program is open to all students from

Classes VI to XI. Participation is voluntary, giving students the chance to showcase their scientific knowledge on a national platform.

Registration Details

Last Date for Registration: September 30, 2025

Registration Fee: ₹200/- per student

Registration Link: Interested students or schools can register online at https://vvm.org.in/.

Schools and individual students are both eligible to register. For any assistance with the registration process, a list of VVM State Coordinators is available on the official website.

We encourage all eligible students to take part in this exciting program and embark on a journey of scientific discovery!

Vidyarthi Vigyan Manthan (VVM) is a national program aimed at making science more popular among school students in grades VI to XI. It is a digital science talent search examination that identifies students with a strong aptitude for science.

The VVM program is an initiative of Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA) in collaboration with the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM). Both NCERT and NCSM are organizations under the Government of India. The program’s goal is to increase knowledge about Indian contributions to science, develop an interest in pure science, and encourage a passion for excellence in students.

Information regarding the opening of Amrit Udyan, Rashtrapati Bhavan, for school visits.

This is to inform you that the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released a circular regarding the opening of Amrit Udyan at Rashtrapati Bhavan for public viewing. This year’s “Summer Annuals edition will be open from

August 16, 2025, to September 14, 2025.

The Amrit Udyan will be open every day during this period, except on Mondays. The visiting hours are from 10 AM to 6 PM, with the last entry permitted at 5:15 PM.

Highlights of the visit include a variety of rare seasonal flowers, a newly constructed Open-Air Theatre for student programs, and a dedicated garden for children called Bal Vatika. A new feature this year is the

Babbling Brook, a tranquil water stream with cascades and sculptural spouts.

We are pleased to announce that there is no entry fee for students and faculty during this period. A visit to the Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum also remains an option for students, as entry to the museum is also free for students. The circular also states that August 29, 2025, will be celebrated as National Sports Day and September 5, 2025, as Teachers’ Day at Rashtrapati Bhavan. On these respective days, Amrit Udyan will be open exclusively for sports persons and teachers. Schools interested in organizing a visit must book their slots in advance. The entry for schools will be through Gate No. 35 on North Avenue Road. For a smooth entry process, students are required to be in their proper school uniform.

We encourage all students and teachers to take advantage of this excellent learning opportunity and witness the floral extravaganza.

For any further queries, please contact the provided helpline number at

9205855997 or email at [email protected].

Amrit Udyan at Rashtrapati Bhavan is a garden that is open to the public for a limited period to showcase its “Summer Annuals”. This year, the gardens will be open from August 16 to September 14, 2025. The key attraction is a “flowering extravaganza” featuring rare seasonal flowers. Other specialties include the new Babbling Brook, a tranquil water feature, and the Bal Vatika, a dedicated garden for children with a tree house and a “speaking tree”. Additionally, there’s a Bonsai Garden with around 360 bonsai plants and a newly constructed Open Air Theatre for student and teacher programs. The gardens also offer a tranquil Banyan Grove and a serene Herbal and Plumeria Garden for an immersive sensory experience. Entry is free for students and faculty, and they can also visit the Rashtrapati Bhavan Museum for free.

Link to Official Notification : https://cbseacademic.nic.in/web_material/Circulars/2025/51_Circular_2025.pdf

Nurturing Creativity: CBSE Reinforces Art-Integrated Projects for Classes I-X

New Delhi, [Current Date] – The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has reiterated the importance of Art-Integrated Project work for students in Classes I to X for the upcoming academic session 2025-26. This initiative, which is a mandatory part of Subject-Enrichment activities under Internal Assessment, aims to foster creativity and a deeper understanding of diverse Indian art forms through experiential learning.

Originally introduced via Circular no. Acad-33/2020 on May 14, 2020 ¹, the Art-Integrated Project work requires students from Classes I-X to undertake at least one project that integrates any art form of a paired State or Union Territory (UT)². This pairing of states and UTs encourages students to explore the rich cultural tapestry of India, promoting national integration and appreciation for different regional arts.

Key Highlights of the Art-Integrated Project:

• Mandatory Inclusion: The project work is compulsory for students in Classes I to X as part of their internal assessment³.

  Subject-Enrichment: It serves as a vital component of subject enrichment activities, allowing students to connect academic subjects with artistic expression⁴.

  State/UT Pairing: Each project must integrate an art form from a specific paired State or Union Territory, as outlined in Annexure I of the circular⁵.

  Guidelines and Resources: Schools are strongly advised to refer to the comprehensive CBSE Guidelines on Art-Integrated Learning, detailed in Annexure II, III, and IV of the circular⁶. These guidelines are also accessible on the CBSE academic website⁷.

  KALASETU Portal Submission: Similar to the previous academic session, schools will be required to submit the details of their Art-Integration Projects on the KALASETU Portal. The dates for submission will be intimated later, and this submission is mandatory before downloading admit cards for the Board examinations 2025-26⁸.

This continuous emphasis on Art-Integrated Learning underscores CBSE’s commitment to a holistic education approach. By engaging students in creative and culturally rich projects, the Board aims to develop not just academic knowledge but also critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and an appreciation for India’s diverse heritage.

For any queries regarding the Art-Integrated Project work, schools can reach out to the Joint Secretary, Academics, at CBSE⁹.

Link to Official Notification : https://cbseacademic.nic.in/web_material/Circulars/2025/43_Circular_2025.pdf

Calling All Outstanding Educators: CBSE Invites Self-Nominations for National Awards to Teachers 2024-25!

New Delhi, [Current Date] – Do you know an exceptional teacher or principal who has made a remarkable impact in their school and community? Or are you one yourself? The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is thrilled to announce the opening of self-nominations for the prestigious National Awards to Teachers 2024-25, specifically for private independent schools affiliated with the Board. This is a golden opportunity to recognize and celebrate the dedication and unique contributions of outstanding educators across the country!

The Ministry of Education, Government of India, annually bestows these esteemed awards to honor teachers who have gone above and beyond in their commitment to education. This year, CBSE has been entrusted with recommending six deserving nominations from its vast network of affiliated private independent schools.

Are You Eligible? Check the Criteria!

CBSE is inviting self-nominations from interested and eligible teachers and principals. Here’s a quick overview of the key eligibility requirements:

• For Teachers: You must have completed at least 10 years of regular service as a teacher in a school(s) affiliated with a recognized Board of school education by March 31, 2025.
• For Principals: You must have completed 10 years of regular service as a teacher and 5 years as a Principal in CBSE-affiliated school(s) by March 31, 2025.
• Recent Retirees: Teachers or Principals who retired on or after March 31, 2025, are also eligible to apply.
• Category Specifics: Principals are not eligible to apply under the ‘Teacher’ category, and applicants can apply under only one category.

Detailed general and specific selection criteria are provided in Annexure ‘A’ (refer to the official circular).

How to Apply: The Online Self-Nomination Process

Only online applications will be accepted for the National Awards to Teachers 2024-25. All interested and eligible teachers and principals must apply directly through the dedicated portal:

https://cbseit.in/cbse/2025/tchawrd/index.aspx

The last date for submitting your application is July 6, 2025. Make sure you have the following documents ready to upload (in PDF format, max 1MB, and duly signed/verified as specified):

• An undertaking declaring the correctness of submitted particulars and genuineness of uploaded documents.
• Recommendation letters, including certification of continuous and regular service and vigilance clearance, duly signed by the Manager of the School. These letters must confirm no break in service for the last 10 years (for teachers) and 15 years (for Principals).
• Copies of academic certificates/degrees and mark statements (Class 10/11/12/Equivalent, Graduation, Post Graduation, and professional qualifications like NTT/ETE/B. El. Ed./B.Ed./Others).
• Class Result in Board/School Examinations.

The Selection Journey:

CBSE will meticulously prepare a merit list based on various factors, including experience, age, academic qualifications, and performance in qualifying exams. From this comprehensive list, the top 24 applicants will be shortlisted. In case of a tie, CBSE reserves the right to apply additional criteria.

Shortlisted applicants will then be given two days to upload their verified documents, which must be signed by the Head of School (for teachers) or the Manager of School (for Principals).

Finally, a National Level Scrutiny Committee will further shortlist candidates and invite them for an interactive session. After this rigorous process, the final six nominations will be decided and recommended to the Ministry of Education.

We urge all school heads to widely disseminate this crucial information among their teachers and principals. This is a moment to shine a spotlight on the incredible work being done in our schools. Ensure all required information and documents are uploaded on the portal on or before the deadline.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be recognized on a national platform for your dedication and excellence in education!

All the Best!!

Link to Official Notification: https://cbseacademic.nic.in/web_material/Circulars/2025/36_Circular_2025.pdf

CBSE Launches ‘Oil Boards’ Initiative to Combat Rising Obesity and Promote Healthy Lifestyles

New Delhi, [Current Date] – In a significant move to address the growing concern of obesity among students and promote healthier lifestyles, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a new circular urging all affiliated schools to establish ‘Oil Boards’. This initiative, a continuation of their earlier ‘Sugar Boards’ campaign, aims to raise awareness about harmful consumption of unhealthy foods and encourage better dietary habits and physical activity among the school community.

The decision comes in light of alarming statistics: the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019-21) reveals that over one in five adults in urban areas are overweight or obese. Furthermore, a 2025 Lancet GBD study projects that the number of overweight and obese adults in India could surge from 18 crores in 2021 to 44.9 crores by 2050, potentially making India the country with the second-highest global burden of obesity. Childhood obesity, specifically, is largely influenced by poor dietary habits and reduced physical activity.

To combat this trend, CBSE has outlined several key actions for schools to implement:

• Install ‘Oil Board’ Displays: Schools are mandated to put up ‘Oil Board’ displays (digital or static posters) in common areas such as cafeterias, lobbies, meeting rooms, and other public spaces. These boards will serve as visual reminders to raise awareness about unhealthy consumption.

  Print Health Messages on Stationery: To reinforce daily reminders on fighting obesity, schools should print health messages on all official stationery, including letterheads, envelopes, notepads, and folders.

  Promote Healthy Meals and Physical Activity: Schools are encouraged to provide nutritious and healthier food options, focusing on more fruits, vegetables, and low-fat choices. They should also limit the availability of sugary drinks and high-fat snacks. Additionally, promoting physical activity through initiatives like encouraging stair use, organizing short exercise breaks, and facilitating walking routes is advised.

CBSE has provided prototype designs for these boards in Annexure-I of the circular, which schools can customize to suit their specific requirements. Schools can also involve students in preparing these boards as part of an experiential learning exercise

For additional resources, schools can access relevant IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) material, including posters and videos, on the official YouTube channel of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). For further details or queries regarding the initiative, schools can contact FSSAI via email at [email protected]

This proactive step by CBSE underscores the importance of fostering a healthier school environment and safeguarding the well-being of children. By implementing these measures, schools can play a crucial role in shaping healthier habits for the next generation.

Link to Official Circular : https://cbseacademic.nic.in/web_material/Circulars/2025/45_Circular_2025.pdf

New Delhi, India – The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially announced the “1st CBSE Expression Series for the Academic Session 2025-26,” inviting students from Class 3 to 12 to showcase their talents on the theme of Competency Focused Education. This initiative aims to foster creative expression and critical thinking among students across various stages of their schooling. ¹

What is the Expression Series?

The Expression Series is an annual event organized by CBSE, providing a platform for students to express their thoughts and ideas through paragraphs, essays, and poems. ²For this inaugural series of the academic year, the central theme is “Competency Focused Education,” encouraging students to delve into the practical skills and abilities that extend beyond traditional academic scores. ³

Topics for Each Category:

The series is divided into four stages, each with specific topics and modes of expression: ⁴

• Preparatory Stage (Class 3 to 5): Students can write a paragraph (150 words) on topics like “My Superpower: skill that helps me shine” or “How I solve my problems.” ⁵Middle Stage (Class 6 to 8): Participants can choose to write an essay (400 words) or a poem on themes such as “My learning adventure: Everyday something new” or “How competency based learning helps me handle real life situations.” ⁶

  Secondary Stage Phase 1 (Class 9 to 10): Students will submit an essay (700 words) or a poem. Topics include “Empowering Growth Through Competency-Oriented Learning” and “Competency means more than marks.” ⁷

  Secondary Stage Phase 2 (Class 11 to 12): The senior-most students will write an essay (1000 words) or a poem on topics like “The competencies I want to carry into my professional life” or “Beyond Exams: How competencies shape careers.” ⁸

Entries can be submitted in either Hindi or English. ⁹

Important Dates and Submission Process:

Schools are tasked with organizing their internal Expression Series from

July 14, 2025, to July 28, 2025. ¹⁰Schools must disseminate information to all students about the series. ¹¹

After school-level evaluations, schools will shortlist one entry per class category (a total of four entries per school) for submission to CBSE. ¹²Each shortlisted entry must include a certificate from the Head of the Institution or Teacher In-charge, verifying the originality of the work. ¹³

The shortlisted entries are to be submitted by schools to CBSE between

July 28, 2025, and August 4, 2025, through the “CBSE Expression Series App” available on the Google Play Store. ¹⁴Students must use the format provided in Annexure I for their entries. ¹⁵

Recognition and Certificates:

Every participant who successfully submits their entry via the CBSE Expression Series App will receive an online certificate of participation. ¹⁶Furthermore, the top 10 entries in each category at the Regional Level and the top 3 entries at the National Level will be awarded online certificates of merit from the Board. ¹⁷

What is SAFAL – KSA?

SAFAL – KSA is a diagnostic assessment designed to help schools and teachers understand students’ competency levels at their respective grade levels. This valuable insight empowers educators to enhance their instructional practices and effectively cater to the diverse learning needs of students². The Board successfully conducted SAFAL 2024-25, witnessing participation from approximately 10,000 CBSE-affiliated schools both in India and abroad³.

Mandatory for Grades 6 and 9

For the 2025-26 session, SAFAL – KSA will be conducted for students currently in Grades 6 and 9 (those who studied in Grades 5 and 8 respectively in 2024-25)⁴.

Registration Details

Schools eager to participate in the upcoming SAFAL – KSA must register between

July 8, 2025, and July 22, 2025⁵. Registration can be completed by logging into the CBSE SAFAL portal using LOC credentials via the link:

https://cbsesafal.in/login⁶.

Digital Assessment with a Pen-Paper Option

SAFAL – KSA will primarily be conducted in a digital mode for schools equipped with the necessary digital infrastructure, as per CBSE Circulars No. 10/2023 and 02/2024⁷⁷⁷. Schools are strongly encouraged to ensure they possess the required digital infrastructure⁸.

However, for this session only, schools unable to participate digitally due to unavoidable circumstances will have a one-time opportunity to opt for the OMR-based pen-paper mode⁹. Such schools will be required to submit an undertaking, jointly signed by the Manager and Principal, committing to upgrade their digital infrastructure during this academic session¹⁰.

Important Dates to Remember

• Registration Start Date: July 8, 2025 ¹¹
• Registration Last Date: July 22, 2025 ¹²
• SAFAL Assessment Period: November – December 2025 ¹³
• Report Generation: April 2026 ¹⁴

For any queries regarding the registration process, schools can contact CBSE at +91-9968313254 or +91-9968663255 (Phone and WhatsApp) during office hours (9:30 AM – 5:30 PM), or email [email protected]¹⁵.

SAFAL – KSA represents a significant step towards reinforcing competency-based learning and providing valuable insights to improve educational outcomes for students across CBSE-affiliated schools.

Note:

Link to Official Notification : https://cbseacademic.nic.in/web_material/Circulars/2025/42_Circular_2025.pdf