In a significant move, a high-level panel from the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has recommended the inclusion of epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata in the school history curriculum, categorising them under India’s ‘classical period’.

As reported by The Times Of India, this proposal is part of the Social Science Committee’s efforts to revise the social sciences curriculum for schools.

The committee, chaired by Prof C I Issac, has also suggested incorporating the Indian knowledge system, Vedas, and Ayurveda into textbooks.

The recommendations, outlined in the final position paper on social sciences, aim to provide a comprehensive perspective for the development of new NCERT textbooks in the subject.

However, the proposal is pending final approval from the NCERT.

The panel advocates a reclassification of Indian history into four periods: the classical period, the medieval period, the British era, and modern India.

Prof Issac highlighted that this marks a departure from the traditional three classifications of Indian history — ancient, medieval, and modern India.

Under the suggested classical period, the panel emphasises teaching Indian epics, providing students with insights into figures like Rama from Ramayana and the overarching themes of the epics.

The proposal also recommends dedicating space in textbooks to various dynasties that have shaped India’s history, ensuring a more inclusive historical narrative.

Additionally, the committee proposes that textbooks feature information about victories and heroes such as Subhas Chandra Bose to instill a sense of national pride and confidence among students.

In a unique suggestion, the panel also recommends inscribing the Preamble of the Constitution on the walls of all classrooms in vernacular languages.

Moreover, they propose replacing the term ‘India’ with ‘Bharat’ in textbooks, a move aimed at fostering a stronger connection to the nation’s cultural identity.

The NCERT, responding to the developments, stated that the syllabus development process is ongoing, and it is premature to comment on the reported changes. The final decision on the proposed revisions is yet to be confirmed.