If you’ve attended a CBSE school in life, you must have come across NCERT books. Maybe you’ve even seen people searching for a 1990s edition of Class 11 History like it’s some rare collectible. These old NCERT textbooks have quietly built a reputation for being crisp, factual, and no-nonsense. They get straight to the point, which is why so many UPSC aspirants, teachers, and even students still prefer them for different subjects.
Now, here’s the catch: they’re not that easy to find anymore. Since the syllabus updates kicked in years ago, these old books slowly disappeared from regular bookstores. Some lucky ones manage to find them through seniors or second-hand sellers. Others give up and settle for PDFs. Unfortunately, many of these books end up with a raddiwala who don’t realise they’re still useful to someone else.
That’s where this guide comes in. Whether you’re a student trying to track down a specific edition, a parent wondering if it’s worth keeping that old stack of school books, or just someone curious about why old NCERT books are in demand again, we’ve got you covered.
What Exactly Are Old NCERT Books And Why Do People Still Want Them?
When people say old NCERT books, they’re usually talking about the textbooks that were used in Indian schools before around 2005. These are the ones that came before all the fancy updates and redesigned layouts. You’ll recognise them if you’ve ever seen those plain covers and no-frills printing.
These books were straight shooters for subjects like History, Geography, Civics, and Science. The content was crisp, factual, and written without much sugar-coating. That’s a big reason they’re still being looked for today by school kids and those preparing for exams like UPSC or State PSCs.
The newer NCERTs are good too but include more visuals and follow a modern teaching approach. The old ones were written more like concise reference books. You read them, and you get the meat of the subject without being told how to feel about it. They’re not just used as old textbooks anymore. People treat them like study tools, prep material, or something to return to when they want to brush up on their basics. They’re rare, but not irrelevant.
So, old NCERT books aren’t just old for the sake of it. They’re still around because they’re useful. If you’ve got a few gathering dust somewhere, you might be sitting on something a lot of people are actively looking for.
Who’s Still Reading Old NCERT Books And Why?
You’d think textbooks from two decades ago would be long forgotten. But old NCERT books continue to be quietly passed around, borrowed, hunted down at second-hand book markets.
- UPSC aspirants
If you know anyone preparing for the civil services, there’s a high chance you’ve heard the phrase – ‘Start with old NCERTs’. It’s practically a rite of passage because the way these older editions explain things is far more direct. That’s gold when you’re preparing for exams where clarity matters more than catchy headings.
- Teachers
A lot of school teachers and private tutors also keep old NCERT books handy because they’re often sharper in how they present core ideas. Many even refer to them while explaining tough topics to students.
- Casual Readers/Collectors
Some people genuinely enjoy revisiting the way things used to be taught. It’s a bit like reading the Constitution in its original language – slightly dated but somehow more powerful. For those who grew up with these books, there’s also a strong sense of familiarity. The yellowing pages and clean formatting bring back memories.
While it might seem strange at first, the demand for old NCERT books is still going strong. They’re more than just books. For some, they’re a serious study tool. For others, they’re a window into how learning used to be before everything became about animations and QR codes.
Also Read: Saving Money with Used Textbooks: A Student’s Guide
Which Old NCERT Books Are Actually in Demand?
Not all old NCERTs are treated the same. Some get picked up the moment they show up in a second-hand shop, while others sit untouched for months. If you’ve ever tried finding these books or tried selling them, you’ll know that a few subjects and specific editions are always the first to go.
- History books
Books, especially the ones from Class 11 and 12, are usually on everyone’s list. It is because of how directly they talk about events.
- Geography
The older Class 11–12 books are the ones people chase. There’s something about how they broke down topics like climate, resources, and physical features without going in circles. If you’ve seen both old and new versions side by side, the difference jumps out.
- Science books
Old NCERT books from Classes 6 to 10 are popular with school kids and their parents who want the “old way” of learning. These aren’t flashy books. But they do the job and do it well.
- Polity and Economics
Book editions from the early 2000s aren’t always easy to find. When they show up, they’re picked up fast by aspirants prepping for UPSC and other competitive exams. The way those books explain the Constitution or how Parliament works, is just clearer.
So, old NCERT books aren’t all equal. Some are just more useful, more readable, or simply more trusted than others.
Where Do You Actually Find Old NCERT Books in 2025?
Ask anyone who’s tried to find an old NCERT recently, and you’ll get a similar reaction – a mix of deep sighs, dramatic eye rolls, and maybe a story about being overcharged for a tattered book from 2001.
These books are still around but they don’t exactly show up on shelves with a glowing sign that says “Here! Pre-2005 NCERTs!” You’ve got to know where to look and how to ask.
Let’s start with the obvious one: second-hand markets.
If you’re in a city like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, or Chennai, you probably already know the names – Daryaganj, College Street, Flora Fountain, or Moore Market. These places are chaotic, a little dusty, and full of books that haven’t seen the light of day in years.
You won’t always spot the old NCERT books on display though. Most sellers keep them stashed away. You have to ask. Sometimes you have to really ask. Sometimes, you’ll find one seller who casually pulls out the exact book you’ve been chasing for weeks.
Then there’s the online route.
Not everyone has access to big city markets, and most of us are just trying to find these books from our phones. BookMandee has made this easier. It’s a platform where people buy and sell second-hand books, so the chances of stumbling on an old NCERT book-ads are high.
Recommended Read: Where Can You Find Used NCERT Books?
Is It Actually an Old NCERT Book Or Just Old?
So, you found a book. It looks worn out, smells like the 90s, and the pages are yellowing. But does that automatically make it one of those old NCERT books everyone keeps talking about?
Not really. And it’s surprisingly easy to get it wrong.
Here’s how you can figure it out without overthinking it:
- Look at the year
Flip to the first or second page for a printing date from before 2005. You’re on the right track if there is anything around 1999–2003. The ones printed in 2007 or later are from the updated syllabus. Not the one UPSC forums are obsessed with.
- Check the cover and the vibe
Old NCERT books don’t try too hard. The covers are plain – maybe a small drawing, no glossy images, no flashy designs.
- Read a few lines
Open a random page in a History or Polity book and read. The old ones sound like they were written by a government officer – straight to the point, no stories, no “think about this” prompts.
If it feels like a textbook trying to teach with examples, activities, or side notes, it’s probably newer.
- Google the edition
Type in the name of the book, class, and year. Match it up with what you’ve got. If the chapter titles or layout don’t line up, you’ll know.
Keeping Your Old NCERT Books Alive a Little Longer
Old NCERTs aren’t just books anymore but collectibles. Like most things that age well, they need a bit of care, especially if you’ve got a genuine edition that’s getting harder to find.
- Keep them away from damp corners
Old books and moisture don’t get along. If your old NCERT books are stored near a bathroom, under the bed, or on a shelf that leaks during monsoon, you’re asking for trouble. Once the pages get mouldy or the spine warps, it’s tough to undo.
- Stop folding pages and use anything as a bookmark
Fold a corner to mark where we stopped. If it’s a 20-year-old book, that tiny fold adds up over time. Use an old bus ticket, a receipt, or a visiting card as a bookmark.
- Don’t stack them like bricks
Stacking too many heavy books on top of old ones is a quick way to crush the spine and make the binding come loose. Store them standing upright, or lay them flat with just a couple on top.
- No highlighters or pen marks
You might want to scribble notes in the margins. If there’s even a slight chance you’ll sell or lend this book later, skip it. Buyers (especially UPSC folks) usually want clean copies. Even pencil marks can be annoying.
5. Don’t over-fix with tape
If the spine of your old NCERT books tears or pages come loose, it’s okay to tape it but go easy. Some people go full mummy-mode with cellotape, and that makes the book harder to read and uglier to resell.
Use clear tape only where it’s needed or take it to a local binder who knows what they’re doing.
Your old NCERTs don’t need royal treatment but a little respect. Whether you’re keeping them for prep, passing them on, or selling them later, they’ll still hold up.
Can You Still Use Old NCERTs for UPSC or School Exams?
Old NCERTs are still useful but not for everyone, and not in every situation.
If you’re preparing for UPSC, you’ve probably already seen people swear by the old editions for History, Geography, and Polity. They’re not hyped for no reason. These books stick to facts. That’s gold when you’re trying to build a strong base.
But if you’re a school student or following the latest board syllabus, they might not help much. Chapters have changed. Some topics are updated or restructured completely. You might end up studying something that’s not even in the exam anymore.
For UPSC Folks
Old NCERTs are still pretty solid. Here’s why they work:
- They don’t try to simplify everything with flowery language. It’s not exciting, but it’s clear.
- Ancient history and physical geography haven’t changed much. The older editions cover them well.
- The older books tend to explain things in a more logical order, which helps while revising.
For School Students
If you’re in school or following the NCERT syllabus for boards, stick to the latest books because:
- Your question papers are based on the new syllabus.
- Some chapters in the old versions are either outdated or missing key parts.
- Science especially has changed a lot and has new concepts, new language, and even new diagrams.
Old books can be good for extra reading, but don’t depend on them for exams.
TL;DR
| Who You Are | Old NCERTs Useful? | Why / Why Not |
| UPSC Aspirant | Mostly | Great for static subjects, fact-first approach |
| School Student | Not Really | Doesn’t match new syllabus |
| Teaching / Tutoring | Sometimes | Good as a base, but cross-check latest content |
| Curious Reader | Sure | Clean, straightforward content |
What Should You Actually Do With Old NCERT Books?
If you’ve got old NCERTs lying around, you’re probably torn between keeping them, selling them, or just tossing them in a corner for “someday”.
If you’re still using them, or think you might refer back to them soon, keep them. However, here are a few other valid reasons to hold on:
- You’re preparing for UPSC or another exam that still relies on static concepts.
- You’ve got clean, rare editions (the ones with the plain covers and no extra frills).
- You’re a teacher, tutor, or just like referring back to older explanations.
- There’s some sentimental value. Maybe those books saw you through tough nights.
When It’s Probably Time to Let Them Go
- You’ve cleared your exams and don’t see yourself flipping through those pages again.
- The books don’t match the current syllabus. A 2002 Class 9 Science book won’t help a 2025 student.
- They’re taking up space, and you know they’ll collect more dust than attention.
A lot of people are still hunting for old NCERTs. If your copies are in decent shape, they’re not junk but useful.
You can list NCERT books on BookMandee. It’s better than letting them rot on a shelf or dumping them with the raddiwala for ₹20 a kilo.
Quick Gut-Check
| Ask Yourself… | If You Say “Yes”… |
| Am I still using this book? | Keep it |
| Is someone else likely to need this? | Consider selling it |
| Is it just sitting there gathering dust? | Time to let it go |
| Is it torn, scribbled, or damaged? | Maybe donate or recycle |
Want to Sell Your Old NCERT Books? Here’s How to Do It Online Without the Hassle
Selling second-hand NCERT books online in India isn’t rocket science, but it does help to know the right way to go about it. Let’s walk you through the process, step by step, with some tips you probably won’t find in those generic ‘how-to-sell’ guides.
Step 1: Sort Out Your Books Carefully
First off, don’t throw all your NCERTs in a pile and put them up for sale. Take a moment to check which books are actually worth selling. If you’ve got multiple copies or some that are outdated beyond use, it’s better to weed those out now.
Step 2: Choose the Right Platform
Now, where do you sell? There are tons of options, but some work better for NCERT books than others. BookMandee works because it’s focused on second-hand books. Buyers here know exactly what they want. If you want a smooth experience and actual buyers hunting for NCERTs, BookMandee is definitely your best bet.
Step 3: Write a Simple Description
No need to get fancy. Just mention:
- The class and subject clearly (“Class 12 Biology NCERT” or “Old NCERT History Class 11”).
- The edition or year if you know it.
- The condition of the book honestly (“Used, with some underlines but no tears”).
- Any extras if applicable (like practice questions or revision notes stuck inside).
Example:
“Class 10 NCERT Science book, 2010 edition. Used for school exams. Pages intact, slight marks from highlighter.”
Step 4: Price It Fairly
You want to get a good deal, but buyers expect a fair price for used books.
- Check what similar books are listed for online, especially on BookMandee.
- UPSC aspirants often look for older editions and are willing to pay a bit more for those.
- For general school-level NCERTs, prices usually range between ₹30 to ₹100 per book, depending on condition and demand.
You can also use our price estimate calculator before setting the price.
Old NCERT Books Myths That Need Busting
Myth #1: Old NCERT Books Are Just Outdated Stuff You Should Toss
This is probably the most common thing you’ll hear. But that doesn’t mean the older editions suddenly become irrelevant. Many foundational topics in subjects don’t change overnight.
In fact, a lot of examiners prefer questions based on the core concepts that haven’t changed for decades. That’s why older editions are still prized by aspirants who want the original explanations, sometimes clearer and less cluttered than newer editions.
So, if you’re thinking your old NCERT books are useless because they’re old, think again. They still hold plenty of weight.
Myth #2: Only the Latest NCERT Books Are Worth Using
There’s a general belief that only the newest books are valid for study. This often comes from school policies or teachers who insist on the latest edition. For students preparing for competitive exams, this isn’t always the case.
So, don’t feel pressured to throw out your old NCERTs just to get the newest versions.
Myth #3: Old NCERT Books Are Just Scrap and Worth Nothing
Unfortunately, many people dump their used books at scrap dealers, unaware of their true value. But old NCERT books are far from just paper to be thrown away.
For many students across India, these books are affordable, trusted, and comprehensive. If you’re done with your NCERTs, selling them on BookMandee helps you recover some money and gives these books a second life in someone else’s hands. It’s a small but meaningful way to recycle knowledge, not just paper.
Myth #4: Old NCERT Books Could Be Fake or Low Quality
With so many editions, reprints, and even pirated copies floating around, this fear is understandable. But genuine old NCERT books have identifiable features like the NCERT logo, ISBN numbers, and consistent formatting that are hard to fake convincingly.
If you’re buying from a reliable source, you significantly reduce the chances of getting a fake copy.
Myth #5: Only Books in Perfect Condition Are Worth Keeping or Selling
Most students use their NCERTs intensely. Pages get folded, highlighted, sometimes marked with notes. And that’s okay. A few annotations or underlines can even be helpful for other learners, showing important points or exam tricks.
What matters is that the book is still readable and the main content is intact. Books don’t have to be museum-quality to be useful. If your old NCERT is in decent shape, it’s worth holding on to or putting up for sale.