📷 Image Credits: The Indian Express
In response to recent reports of modifications in the National Curriculum for Educational Research and Training (NCERT) textbook, the director Dinesh Prasad Saklani addressed concerns regarding accusations of saffronisation. Saklani emphasized that the changes were not intended to create violent citizens but were based on evidences and facts. He highlighted that the purpose of teaching history in schools was to provide facts, not to incite violence or hatred. The revision of textbooks, according to Saklani, was in the interest of education and aimed to eliminate irrelevant content.
Saklani stressed that the focus of textbooks should not be on promoting hatred or violence, as these are not subjects that should be the central theme of education. Referring to the recent modifications in the NCERT Class 12 Political Science textbook, Saklani explained the rationale behind the deletions and revisions. The removal of details related to certain historical events was part of a global practice of updating educational material to reflect the current socio-political scenario.
Furthermore, Saklani clarified that he did not interfere in the revision process and that the changes were made by subject experts. He defended the revisions by stating that the aim was to create a positive and enlightened citizenry, not to polarize or instigate conflicts. The director also addressed concerns about the portrayal of certain historical events, emphasizing the need to present factual information without bias or agenda.
The controversy surrounding the modifications in the NCERT textbooks has sparked debates about the curriculum’s alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Critics have raised questions about the inclusion and exclusion of specific events and personalities in the textbooks. Despite the criticisms, Saklani reiterated that the revisions were made to ensure that students receive accurate and relevant information in line with educational standards.
