Education Desk, 21st November: The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) panel has proposed the inclusion of timeless epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata in the history curriculum of schools, categorizing them under India’s ‘classical period.’
Prof C I Issac, the committee’s chairman, shared that the panel has recommended featuring the Preamble of the Constitution in vernacular languages on classroom walls.
The Social Science Committee of NCERT has put forth several changes to the social sciences curriculum for schools, including the integration of the Indian knowledge system, Vedas, and Ayurveda into textbooks.
These suggestions, outlined in the final position paper on social sciences, play a pivotal role in shaping the upcoming NCERT textbooks in the subject, pending approval from NCERT.
“The panel has proposed the classification of history into four periods: the classical period, the mediaeval period, the British era, and modern India. Until now, Indian history has been classified into ancient, Medieval, and modern India,” noted Issac, a retired history professor.
“For the classical period, we recommend teaching Indian epics—Ramayana and Mahabharata. Students should have an understanding of who Rama was and the essence of the epic,” Isaac explained.
The panel further suggests dedicating space in textbooks to all the dynasties that governed India, rather than focusing solely on one or two. Issac emphasized the inclusion of details about triumphs and notable figures such as Subhash Chandra Bose.
“Students must be acquainted with Indian heroes, their struggles, and victories to instill confidence,” he emphasized.
Additionally, the panel proposed displaying the Preamble on classroom walls in vernacular languages.
“We have also suggested using the term Bharat instead of the word India in textbooks,” Issac added.
NCERT mentioned last month that syllabus development is ongoing, stating, “It is too premature to comment on the news being flashed in the media on the concerned issue.”
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