In a significant development for India's educational landscape, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has implemented substantial revisions to history textbooks, notably removing the honorific 'the great' previously attached to Mughal emperor Akbar and Mysore ruler Tipu Sultan.
RSS Leader Applauds Textbook Revisions
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh leader Sunil Ambekar publicly endorsed these changes during his address at the Orange City Literature Festival organized by SGR Knowledge Foundation. The Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh of RSS expressed satisfaction with the NCERT initiative, highlighting that modifications have already been incorporated in textbooks across 11 out of 15 classes.
Ambekar emphasized that while the historical figures haven't been entirely removed from the curriculum, the revision aims to present a more balanced perspective. "The new generation should know their cruel deeds and should also know because of whom we were victimized and from whom we should be free," he stated during his Friday address.
Comprehensive Curriculum Overhaul Underway
The textbook revision process represents one of the most extensive changes to India's history curriculum in recent years. According to Ambekar's disclosure, the current changes affect 11 classes, with additional revisions scheduled for Classes 9, 10, and 12 textbooks next year.
The RSS leader defended the decision against potential criticism, asserting that some historical truths need to be communicated regardless of opposition. His comments reflect the ongoing national conversation about how Indian history should be presented to students.
Broader Educational Vision and Cultural Context
Beyond the specific textbook changes, Ambekar articulated a broader vision for India's educational direction. He emphasized the importance of India's ancient knowledge systems, suggesting that this rich heritage could benefit both domestic education and global learning.
The RSS leader specifically referenced Nalanda University, challenging the common perception that only religious texts like Ved Puran, Ramayana, and Mahabharata were taught there. He revealed that the ancient institution offered 76 types of skill-based courses, including practical subjects such as:
- Farming and agricultural techniques
- Urban planning and development
- Political governance and administration
- Mechanization and technical skills
- Intelligence and secret agent training
Ambekar also connected the educational reforms to larger cultural movements, including the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. He described the temple project as not merely a construction endeavor but "a campaign to make people understand" the relationship with Lord Ram's culture and its significance for India's future.
The RSS leader concluded with praise for India's youth, noting that the new generation demonstrates strong patriotism and capability, with national pride becoming increasingly important to younger demographics.
