In a significant curriculum revamp, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has dropped all references to the Mughals and the Delhi Sultanate from its newly revised Class 7 history textbooks. In their place, new chapters highlighting dynasties that reflect “Indian ethos,” sacred pilgrimage sites, and flagship Union government initiatives have been introduced.
The revisions align with the objectives of the new National Education Policy (NEP) and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023, which emphasize incorporating Indian traditions, philosophies, knowledge systems, and local contexts into school education.
Previously, during the syllabus rationalization exercise amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the NCERT had trimmed detailed sections on dynasties such as the Tughlaqs, Khaljis, Mamluks, and Lodis, along with a two-page table highlighting the achievements of Mughal emperors. However, according to a PTI report, this marks the first time that all content related to the Mughals and the Delhi Sultanate has been completely removed from the curriculum.
Focus on Pilgrimage Sites and Sacred Geography
The updated Social Science textbook, titled “Exploring Society: India and Beyond”, introduces new chapters on ancient Indian dynasties like the Magadha, Mauryas, Shungas, and Satavahanas. Another new addition, “How the Land Becomes Sacred,” explores pilgrimage sites across India and abroad, associated with religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Islam, Christianity, Judaism, and Zoroastrianism.
The chapter highlights India’s sacred geography by referencing the 12 jyotirlingas, Char Dham yatra, Shakti Peethas, revered river confluences, mountains, and forests. A quote from India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, describing India as a “land of pilgrimages,” has also been included.
Discussions on Jati, Maha Kumbh, and the Constitution
The new textbook discusses the “varna-jati” system, suggesting that while it initially provided social stability, it later became rigid—particularly under British rule—leading to societal inequalities.
The Maha Kumbh finds mention for its massive participation, noting that over 660 million people attended the event. However, the book omits reference to the tragic stampede that resulted in the deaths of 30 pilgrims and injuries to many others.
In the civics section, a chapter on India’s Constitution highlights a historical moment when citizens were not allowed to hoist the national flag at their homes. It narrates how a Supreme Court ruling in 2004 recognized flying the national flag as a Fundamental Right under Freedom of Expression.
“This changed in 2004 when a citizen felt it was his right to express pride in his country and challenged the rule in court. The Supreme Court agreed, saying that flying the flag is part of the Fundamental Right to Freedom of Expression. We can now fly the tricolour with pride, keeping in mind that it should never be dishonoured,” the textbook reads.
Ongoing Controversy
NCERT officials told PTI that the current release covers only the first part of the Class 7 textbook, and the second part is expected to be released in the coming months. They declined to comment on whether the omitted portions on the Mughals and Delhi Sultanate will be reintroduced in the second volume.
The latest textbook revisions have sparked political controversy, with opposition parties accusing the NCERT of “saffronisation” to suit the ruling party’s agenda. NCERT Director Dinesh Prasad Saklani had earlier defended the rationalization process, stating in an interview with PTI that “teaching about riots can make young children negative citizens.” Notably, earlier textbook editions had already removed references to sensitive topics like the 2002 Gujarat communal riots.