Pralhad Joshi calls for experiential learning, criticises ‘marks-wadi’ mindset

In short

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi called for replacing rote learning with experiential learning on Tuesday.
He criticised the education system and parents for being 'marks-wadi' at the inauguration of an 'Experience Centre' in Dwarka.
The 'Experience Centre' at the CBSE's integrated office complex features 12 broad zones and 21 exhibits across 6,000 square feet.
The initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020's emphasis on practical application of knowledge.
The government plans to establish 50,000 additional Atal Tinkering Labs, adding to the 10,000 already operational.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi on Tuesday, November 2, 2026, urged for a fundamental shift in the Indian education system, advocating for experiential learning over rote memorisation. Speaking at the inauguration of an ‘Experience Centre’ at the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)’s integrated office complex in Dwarka, Joshi criticised the prevailing ‘marks-wadi’ mindset among both the education system and parents.

The minister’s comments underscore the government’s push, outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, to foster hands-on experiences, practical application of knowledge, and confidence-building among students. This approach aims to move beyond a system where student understanding and interests are often overlooked in favour of securing high marks.

Addressing the ‘Marks-Wadi’ Mindset

Pralhad Joshi highlighted that a significant portion of a student’s academic life is currently dedicated to memorising content and strategising for marks. He observed that this focus extends to parents, who often prioritise their children’s scores above other aspects of learning.

“Much of a student’s time goes into memorising and planning how to score marks. Parents, too, often feel the marks must be scored somehow. I often say that people have become a different kind of ‘marks-wadi’. The ideology is another matter, but the mindset has taken hold of nearly every parent,” Joshi stated. He further added that this emphasis on marks can compromise a child’s understanding, learning capacity, and interests, potentially leading to a lack of confidence. The minister stressed that knowledge confined to books, without practical application, serves little purpose, articulating the core philosophy behind the NEP 2020.

The New ‘Experience Centre’ and Experiential Learning

The newly inaugurated ‘Experience Centre’ at the CBSE complex is designed to embody the principles of experiential learning. Spanning 6,000 square feet, the facility houses 12 broad zones and 21 exhibits, aiming to connect ancient traditions with modern learning methodologies and new career opportunities.

A dedicated section within the centre chronicles the evolution of CBSE through historical photographs and archival material, including records dating back to 1935. This initiative is part of a broader national effort to promote hands-on learning, with 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs already operational across the country. The government has also announced plans to establish an additional 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs, further expanding access to practical, newest learning environments.

Nishit Kumar is a senior EdTech industry leader with over a decade of experience in building and scaling education platforms, shaping their product, content, and growth strategy. At FindMyCollege, Nishit oversees content and editorial strategy, guiding topic selection and content frameworks to ensure accuracy, relevance, and student-first value across the website.

View all posts →