A double-header of major academic updates has been released today. First, the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) has opened the registration portal for the National Mission for Mentoring (NMM), inviting experienced professionals to mentor school teachers. Second, the Economic Survey 2026 has unveiled a blueprint to transform India into a global education hub to retain talent and attract international students.
Here is everything students, teachers, and policymakers need to know.
1. National Mission for Mentoring (NMM) 2026: Call for Mentors
The NCTE has officially launched the application process for the National Mission for Mentoring (NMM). This initiative, a key pillar of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aims to create a pool of outstanding professionals to guide and support school teachers across India.
Who Can Apply?
The mission is looking for “Outstanding Professionals” and “Experienced Teachers” to serve as National Mentors.
- Target Candidates: Serving or retired school teachers, university professors, teacher educators, and industry professionals.
- Role: Provide short-term and long-term professional support to mentees (school teachers) in areas like pedagogy, research, and 21st-century skills.
How to Apply Online
The entire process is digital.
- Official Portal: Visit ncte.gov.in/nmm.
- Registration: Click on “Login/Sign Up” and select “Register as a Mentor”.
- Details: Enter your experience, expertise, and professional credentials.
Important: Mentees (teachers seeking guidance) can also register on the same portal to connect with experts.
2. Economic Survey 2026: India as a Global Education Hub
Tabled in Parliament today, the Economic Survey 2026 highlights a major policy shift: leveraging the internationalisation of higher education to retain domestic talent and attract global migrants.
Key Highlights for the Education Sector
- Global Education Hub: India is positioning itself as a destination for international students, using initiatives like ‘Study in India’ to promote affordable, high-quality education.
- Retaining Talent: The survey views globalisation—through foreign university campuses (like those in GIFT City) and mutual recognition of degrees—as critical to reducing the “brain drain” of Indian talent.
- Education-Tourism Model: A new strategy pairs short-term courses (yoga, Ayurveda, heritage) with tourism circuits, specifically targeting students from the Global South and BRICS nations.
- Campus Reforms: To enhance the student experience, the government is pushing for better housing, health services, and simplified visa regulations for international students.
Why This Matters
The survey argues that competition from global universities will motivate Indian institutions to improve standards. It also warns against excessive commercialisation, advocating for a balance that preserves local traditions while adopting global best practices.
Quick Reference Links
| Resource | Link/Details |
| NMM Registration | Apply Here |
| NMM Bluebook | [Download Guidelines] |
| Economic Survey 2026 | Official PDF Download |
| NCTE Helpdesk | 011-20893266 / helpdesk@ncte-india.org |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the last date to apply for the National Mission for Mentoring?
While the portal is currently “Open Now,” previous cycles had specific deadlines. Candidates are advised to apply immediately to secure their spot as a National Mentor.
Q2: Can retired teachers apply for NMM?
Yes, the program explicitly invites retired outstanding professionals and teachers to contribute their experience.
Q3: What does the Economic Survey 2026 say about foreign universities?
The survey supports the establishment of foreign branch campuses (e.g., in GIFT City) and mutual recognition of qualifications to create an enabling ecosystem for international collaboration.
Q4: Is the NMM registration free?
Yes, registration on the NMM portal for both mentors and mentees is free of cost.
Q5: What is the “Education-Tourism” model mentioned in the Survey?
It refers to offering short-term academic courses (like summer schools or heritage tracks) combined with tourism experiences to attract international students.