'What are we teaching our children...,' PM Modi expressed displeasure over NCERT chapter in Cabinet meeting
PM Modi expressed strong displeasure in a Cabinet meeting regarding the inclusion of alleged judicial corruption in an NCERT textbook for eighth graders.
The Indian government's internal discussions have intensified following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's sharp criticism of a chapter in an NCERT textbook that discusses alleged corruption in the judiciary. During a high-level Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Modi raised concerns about the appropriateness of such sensitive topics being introduced to children at a young age, questioning the educational policies that allow for this inclusion. He is reported to have asked officials, 'What are we teaching eighth graders about judicial corruption? Is this appropriate for their age and understanding?'
The chapter in question is part of the NCERT syllabus and has sparked a significant debate about educational content and its implications for young learners. While no official statement has been released on this issue, Modi's comments have reignited discussions about educational policy and the process of curriculum formulation in India. The controversy highlights the tension between educational content that aims to educate students about societal problems and the age-appropriateness of such discussions.
As this debate unfolds, it could have broad implications for the direction of India's educational policies. Stakeholders in the education sector, including policymakers, educators, and parents, are likely to engage in dialogue about what constitutes suitable educational material for children. This incident may also lead to shifts in NCERT guidelines and a reevaluation of how sensitive subjects are handled in school curriculums, which could change the landscape of primary education in India.