In a landmark move to transform traditional learning, the CBSE Art-Integrated Projects Mandate has been officially implemented in 2025 across Classes I to X. This policy shift brings creativity, regional culture, and visual expression into mainstream academic subjects—making school education more joyful, interactive, and experiential. Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, this initiative is not just about drawing or painting—it’s about learning through art in every subject, from math to science to languages.
What Is the Art-Integrated Learning Mandate?
Art-integrated learning (AIL) is an educational approach where art forms are used as tools to teach concepts in core subjects. With this mandate, CBSE has made it compulsory for schools to include at least one AIL project per subject, per term, for all students from Classes I to X.
Highlights of the mandate include:
-
Projects must integrate visual arts, music, dance, or theatre with subject learning
-
Cross-cultural activities are encouraged, especially using Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (EBSB) themes
-
Projects must be documented and evaluated as part of internal assessment
-
All CBSE schools must maintain records of project work and evaluation rubrics
The aim is to help children engage with concepts at a deeper level, using their creativity and imagination as learning tools.
Benefits for Students and Schools
The CBSE Art-Integrated Projects Mandate is designed to create a more holistic learning environment where students don’t just memorize—they understand, express, and connect.
Benefits include:
-
Improved retention and comprehension through visual and hands-on learning
-
Boost in emotional intelligence, teamwork, and problem-solving
-
Recognition of diverse learning styles—especially for students who struggle with rote learning
-
Encouragement of regional culture, languages, and traditional crafts in school projects
-
Opportunities for students to link curriculum with real-world contexts and creativity
Schools that have implemented this already report higher student engagement and better performance in formative assessments.
Integration with Subjects and Evaluation Process
AIL projects are now embedded into the curriculum across subjects like:
-
Mathematics – Geometry through Rangoli patterns, symmetry via mirror art
-
Science – Life cycles through storytelling and visual posters
-
Social Science – State-wise comparisons using theatre and folk music
-
Languages – Poetry writing, script enactments, puppet shows
Evaluation is based on:
-
Concept clarity and subject understanding
-
Creativity and presentation
-
Research and teamwork
-
Use of local or traditional art forms
-
Reflection and expression of learning
Teachers use structured rubrics provided by CBSE to ensure consistent and fair grading.
Teacher Training and Curriculum Support
To support smooth implementation, CBSE has conducted:
-
National-level webinars and training sessions for teachers
-
Distribution of model project templates and integration ideas
-
Provision of subject-specific handbooks detailing how to include AIL in lesson plans
-
Collaboration with NCERT and local art experts for regional content enrichment
Teachers are encouraged to co-create projects with students and explore community-based learning for deeper impact.
Alignment with NEP 2020 and Future Roadmap
This mandate is fully aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes experiential learning, creativity, and India’s rich cultural heritage. CBSE plans to:
-
Extend AIL to senior secondary classes in future
-
Incorporate art portfolios as part of board assessments
-
Promote inter-school art exhibitions and online project showcases
-
Partner with art institutions and local artisans for practical learning exposure
This shows a shift in education from performance-based to process-based learning where students are creators, not just consumers of knowledge.
FAQs
What is the CBSE Art-Integrated Projects Mandate?
It is a policy requiring schools to include art-based projects in every subject for Classes I–X, making learning more creative and experiential.
Are these projects graded?
Yes. They are part of the internal assessment, and CBSE provides rubrics for fair and structured evaluation.
What types of art can be included?
Visual arts, folk dance, music, craft, drama, and storytelling—all are acceptable, as long as they connect meaningfully with the subject.
Is this mandate applicable to private schools?
Yes. All CBSE-affiliated schools, whether government or private, must implement this mandate starting academic year 2025–26.
How are teachers trained to implement this?
CBSE conducts workshops, shares model project ideas, and collaborates with art educators to train teachers in integrating art with academics.
Click here to know more.