The 2022 Social Science committee tasked with revising the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has put forth several noteworthy recommendations. One of their significant suggestions is to replace the term ‘India’ with ‘Bharat’ in all Social Science textbooks up to Class 12. This proposed change is currently pending approval from the NCERT.
According to Professor C.I. Issac, the chairman of the committee and a distinguished historian and Padma Shri awardee, they are optimistic about implementing this recommendation in the upcoming academic year, but the final decision rests with the NCERT.
In addition to the name change, the committee also emphasized the need to incorporate India’s post-independence history into the curriculum, which is currently lacking in NCERT textbooks. The committee’s proposal suggests introducing historical events that transpired from 1947 onwards and potentially reducing the hours allocated to pre-independence history.
Another notable recommendation is to replace the term ‘ancient history’ with the ‘classical period of Indian history.’ This change reflects a more precise and historically accurate description.
Moreover, the committee has shown a commitment to enriching the curriculum by including more content about the Indian Knowledge System. This will provide students with a deeper understanding of the country’s accomplishments, history, and culture.
It’s essential to note that these proposed modifications follow a recent debate in the country that emerged in September when the Union government used the term “President of Bharat” instead of “President of India” in invitations for a G20 dinner. In response to the ensuing controversy, the NCERT has stated that it is too early to comment on this issue, as consultations with experts are ongoing in the process of developing new syllabi and textbooks.
In summary, the 2022 Social Science committee’s suggestions, including the change from ‘India’ to ‘Bharat’ in textbooks, expanding post-independence history, updating terminology, and enhancing the curriculum with more insights into the Indian Knowledge System, reflect a significant effort to reshape the educational landscape in India. The final implementation of these recommendations will depend on the decision of the NCERT.