The book attempts to provide a brief but constructive and critical analysis of the observations and recommendations contained in National Curriculum Framework-2005, formulated by the steering committee set up by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India under the chairmanship of Prof. Yash Pal. Since the focus on educational reforms is in the light of the document 'Learning Without Burden' (1993), its main recommendations with their evaluation by the group constituted by the MHRD are incorporated for ready reference of the readers. The main characteristics of this publication is to provide a broad 'Framework' for the 'Try-Out' of the curriculum at the grass-roots level-an element missing in NFC 2005. This work also incorporates the constitution and functions of the reconstituted Central Advisory Board of Education - CABE (2004) - The highest advisory body in education. On 'Quality Education', the main recommendations of UNESCO International Conference on Education held in September 2004, are also included to have a wider perspective. It is hoped that the book should serve as a reliable companion to all those interested in the development of education. Contents Preface 1. Foreword, Executive Summary and Members-Curriculum 2005 2. Perspective 3. Learning and Knowledsge 4. Curricular Areas, School Stages and Assessment 5. School and Classroom Environment 6. Systemic Reforms and Epilogue 7. Overall Observations on the Document and the Need for the Try-out of the Proposed Curriculum Appendices 1. 'Learning Without Burden' (1993) and Recommendation145 on it by the Group Appointed by MHRD 2. Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE): Its Functions161 and Constitution 3. Quality Education for Young People: UNESCO/ICE (2004)