In a significant move towards curriculum reform, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is considering replacing the term “India” with “Bharat” in school textbooks for all classes. This recommendation is part of a broader effort to realign the educational curriculum with the National Education Policy (NEP) of 2020.
A high-level committee for social sciences, appointed by the NCERT to revise the school curriculum, has proposed this change. Committee Chairperson C I Isaac revealed that the panel has also suggested introducing “classical history” in place of “ancient history” and incorporating the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) into the syllabus for all subjects. However, NCERT Chairman Dinesh Saklani has clarified that no decision has been made yet regarding these recommendations.
Isaac emphasized the historical significance of the term “Bharat,” stating that it has been used in ancient texts such as the Vishnu Purana, which dates back 7,000 years. This proposed shift is in line with recent official events, such as the government’s use of “President of Bharat” instead of “President of India” in G20 invitations and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s nameplate during the summit in New Delhi.
The committee has also recommended a shift in the portrayal of historical events in textbooks. Isaac mentioned the need to highlight “Hindu victories” in various battles, which he believes have not been adequately addressed in current textbooks. He explained, “Our failures are presently mentioned in the textbooks. But our victories over the Mughals and sultans are not.”
The committee’s suggestions also aim to address the British colonial perspective on Indian history. Isaac elaborated on this point, saying, “The British had divided Indian history into three phases – ancient, medieval, and modern – showing India in darkness, unaware of scientific knowledge and progress. Therefore, we have suggested that the classical period of Indian history be taught in schools, along with medieval and modern periods.”
These changes are part of the NCERT’s comprehensive effort to align the school curriculum with the NEP 2020. To finalize the curriculum, textbooks, and learning materials for these classes, a 19-member National Syllabus and Teaching Learning Material Committee (NSTC) was recently established by the council.
Furthermore, the committee has recommended the incorporation of the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) into the curriculum for all subjects. This move is intended to promote a more holistic and culturally-rooted education.
The high-level committee’s recommendations have sparked discussions on the evolving landscape of India’s educational system and the importance of aligning curricula with India’s rich heritage and cultural legacy. However, the final decision regarding these proposed changes is yet to be determined.
As the NCERT continues its curriculum revision journey, it remains to be seen how these suggestions will shape the educational landscape of the nation.
Sources By Agencies
