The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is an autonomous organization established in 1961 by the Government of India to advise central and state governments on school education policies. It was formed by merging several existing education institutions. NCERT aims to implement the national curriculum framework, universalize elementary education, improve teacher education, and more. It undertakes activities like research, curriculum development, training, publishing textbooks and instructional materials, and international exchange programs. NCERT consists of the National Institute of Education, Central Institute of Educational Technology, regional institutes of education, and other units.