In a significant stride towards cultural integration and educational reform, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has revised textbook titles to reflect Indian heritage and identity. This initiative, emerging from the pedagogical framework of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aims to foster inclusivity, instill a sense of belonging, and decolonize the Indian education system.
Why the Change?
NCERT introduced these changes as part of the National Curriculum Framework 2023, which envisions a holistic and rooted educational experience for Indian learners. These revisions are not merely cosmetic; they are deeply symbolic, attempting to reshape how students perceive education and their cultural environment. The use of titles derived from Indian musical instruments and classical traditions — such as Santoor, Mridang, Tabla, and raga Poorvi — aims to blend education with India’s rich intellectual and artistic legacy.
Responding to Criticism
The move faced criticism from some quarters, particularly from Kerala’s general education minister, V. Sivankutty, who accused the Union government of cultural imposition and undermining linguistic diversity. He argued that textbook titles are not trivial — they influence a child’s imagination and language preference. According to him, English-medium students deserve English titles to maintain linguistic neutrality and promote educational empowerment through consensus.
NCERT, however, clarified that the titles are intended to be inclusive, not divisive. The Council emphasized that the naming is not an attempt to impose Hindi or any particular language. Instead, textbooks are being translated and developed in multiple Indian languages to ensure accessibility across diverse linguistic communities.
Examples of the New Titles
The transition has already begun:
- Class 1–2 textbooks were introduced in 2023.
- Classes 3–8 textbooks are being rolled out in 2024.
- Classes 9–12 will receive updated books in 2025–26.
Some specific examples include:
- Class 4 English textbook now titled Santoor (replacing Marigold).
- Class 6 and 7 English textbooks now titled Poorvi (replacing Honeysuckle and Honeycomb).
- Mathematics textbook named Ganita Prakash.
- Physical Education now called Khel Yatra.
- Vocational Education textbook is Kaushal Bodh.
Educational Philosophy Behind the Change
According to NCERT, these titles are more than names; they are conceptually rooted in Indian traditions and values. The goal is to:
- Promote involvement by resonating with students’ cultural context.
- Enhance engagement through familiar and meaningful references.
- Encourage holistic education by connecting academic learning with life experiences and moral reasoning.
The visual design of the textbooks has also been revamped to make them more appealing, inclusive, and engaging. They incorporate vivid imagery and relatable themes while encouraging critical thinking, ethical behavior, and patriotism — especially by highlighting contributions of Indian heroes and national values.
Conclusion
NCERT’s effort represents a paradigm shift in how education is envisioned in India — moving from rote memorization towards culturally anchored, inclusive learning. While debate and dissent are integral to a democratic society, this educational reform offers a constructive step toward building a curriculum that mirrors India’s civilizational depth and pluralistic ethos.
As India navigates the challenges of modern education, these textbook changes could play a pivotal role in shaping a generation that is both globally competent and deeply rooted in its own identity.