In a significant development, a high-level committee for social sciences, appointed by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to revamp the school curriculum, has proposed replacing the term ‘India’ with ‘Bharat’ in textbooks.
#NCERT Committee Proposes ‘#Bharat‘ as Replacement for ‘#India‘ in School Textbooks. #cliQIndia pic.twitter.com/BCaVuAtDpQ
— cliQ India (@cliQIndiaMedia) October 25, 2023
The recommendation, along with other pivotal changes, has been detailed in the committee’s final position paper on social sciences, informed committee’s chairperson CI Issac on Wednesday.
Tracing the Origins of ‘Bharat’
Chairing the committee, CI Issac, highlighted the historical and cultural significance of the name ‘Bharat,’ which traces its roots back to ancient texts like the Vishnu Purana, dating as far back as 7,000 years. He pointed out that the term ‘India’ gained common usage only after the establishment of the East India Company and the pivotal Battle of Plassey in 1757. In light of this, the committee has unanimously proposed that ‘Bharat’ be adopted in textbooks across all classes, he said.
Recognition of ‘Bharat’ on the World Stage
Interestingly, the name ‘Bharat’ has recently received official recognition when the government extended G20 invites hosted by the President in the name of ‘President of Bharat,’ rather than ‘President of India.’ Similarly, the nameplate of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Summit in New Delhi also read ‘Bharat,’ underlining the growing acceptance of the term.
Classical History Takes Center Stage
In addition to this significant change, the committee has advocated for the introduction of ‘classical history’ in place of ‘ancient history’ within the curriculum. This move seeks to provide a more comprehensive understanding of India’s historical legacy, highlighting its contributions to scientific knowledge and progress.
Another notable recommendation made by the committee is to emphasize “Hindu victories” in the textbooks. While acknowledging that failures are presently included in the curriculum, the committee aims to shed light on historical victories over the Mughals and Sultans, presenting a more balanced perspective on India’s past.
Reviving Indian Knowledge System
Furthermore, the committee has proposed the introduction of the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) across all subjects, a move aimed at integrating traditional Indian wisdom and knowledge into the educational framework.
It is pertinent to note that these recommendations align with the ongoing efforts by the NCERT to revise school textbooks in accordance with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. To finalize the curriculum, textbooks, and learning materials in line with these changes, the NCERT has also constituted a 19-member National Syllabus and Teaching Learning Material Committee (NSTC).
