AI-Powered Balbharti textbooks to speak to students
In a move to integrate technology into education, the Maharashtra government is set to introduce an artificial intelligence (AI) model for Balbharti textbooks, as announced by the Maharashtra state education minister, Jitendra Tarte.
26 Feb 2026 | 300 Views | By PrintWeek Team
This AI experiment aims to transform the iconic, familiar images of the older sibling (Tai) and younger sibling (Dada) on the book covers into interactive AI assistants, much like Alexa.
While speaking at an educational programme in Nashik, Tarte emphasised the need for teachers to update their skills in the era of technology, stating that the new AI model will be sent to schools across the state. The model is conceptualised to provide relevant answers to students' questions, with experts currently working on its name and ability to communicate in Marathi and other dialects.
The initiative by the Maharashtra State Textbook Production and Curriculum Research Board (Balbharti), which has been operating since 1967, does not intend to replace teachers. Instead, it seeks to modernise the educational experience. The famous cover picture, which shows an older sister explaining textbook topics to her younger brother amidst nature, will now take on a new role, marking a "new achievement" for state board students in the near future.