Introduction to NCERT’s New Textbooks

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has introduced new Social Science textbooks for classes 6 to 8, which have been met with widespread approval online. These textbooks aim to present India’s history through a more accurate lens, addressing previous concerns about the overemphasis on colonial perspectives. This initiative is part of a broader movement to decolonize educational materials and highlight India’s rich cultural heritage.

Positive Reception on Social Media

A social media user, Star Boy Tarun, shared their positive review of the new textbooks on X (formerly Twitter), describing them as “refreshing and beautiful.” The user praised the curriculum for its engaging content and noted that while the Class 8 book is not yet available online, the Class 6 and 7 books have been thoroughly enjoyable.

Key Features of the New Curriculum

The new textbooks, titled “Exploring Society: India and Beyond,” are set to be used in the 2025-26 academic cycle. They cover a range of topics, including ancient Indian history from the Rig Veda era. The books also reference historical names such as Bharat and Jambu Dweep, and include mentions of Vedic texts like the Vishnu Puran. Additionally, there is a dedicated chapter on India’s cultural roots, discussing Hindu, Bodh, and Jain traditions.

Cultural Significance Highlighted

The textbooks further explore India’s sacred rivers and mountains, emphasizing their cultural and religious importance. This approach aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of India’s historical and cultural landscape.

Public Reaction and Implications

The changes have sparked significant discussion online, with many users expressing satisfaction with the government’s efforts to revise educational content. Some view this as a step towards correcting historical narratives influenced by past Marxist historians. Others see it as a notable achievement by the Modi government in reshaping education since 2014.