The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has recently revised the Class 12th History syllabus, resulting in the removal of chapters related to the Mughal dynasty. The Uttar Pradesh (UP) government has already implemented these changes in its state board curriculum.
The move has sparked controversy among historians, educators, and politicians, with some welcoming the changes while others vehemently opposing them. According to the NCERT, the syllabus has been revised to bring it in line with the National Education Policy 2020, which emphasizes the need to promote local and regional history.
The revised syllabus now includes chapters on ancient and medieval India, the impact of colonialism, and the Indian freedom struggle. However, chapters related to the Mughal dynasty, including those on Akbar, Aurangzeb, and Shah Jahan, have been removed from the syllabus.
Many historians and educators have criticized the move, stating that it is an attempt to rewrite history and promote a certain political ideology. They argue that the Mughal dynasty played a crucial role in shaping India’s history, and their contributions cannot be ignored or erased.
On the other hand, some have welcomed the move, stating that it is necessary to promote local and regional history and to provide a more balanced view of India’s past. They argue that the Mughals were foreign invaders who ruled over India for centuries, and their legacy is a source of controversy and division.
The UP government, which has implemented the changes, has defended its decision, stating that the revised syllabus is aimed at promoting a more patriotic and nationalistic view of India’s history. However, many have criticized the move, stating that it is an attempt to promote a certain political ideology and undermine the role of the Mughals in shaping India’s past.
In conclusion, the NCERT’s decision to revise the Class 12th History syllabus and remove chapters related to the Mughal dynasty has sparked controversy and debate among historians, educators, and politicians. While some argue that the move is necessary to promote local and regional history, others view it as an attempt to rewrite history and promote a certain political ideology. Only time will tell what impact these changes will have on India’s education system and its understanding of its own history.
It is important to note that the controversy surrounding the revision of the Class 12th History syllabus is not new. In 2017, the Rajasthan government had made similar changes to its state board curriculum, removing chapters related to the Mughals and Rajputs. The move had led to protests and backlash, with many historians and educators calling it an attempt to rewrite history and promote a certain political ideology.
Similarly, in 2018, the Tripura government had also made changes to its state board curriculum, removing chapters related to the Mughals and the Indian freedom struggle. The move had led to protests and criticism from opposition parties and activists.
The revision of the Class 12th History syllabus and the removal of Mughal-related chapters also raises questions about the role of politics in education. Many argue that education should be free from political interference and that the government should not dictate what students learn or do not learn.
Education plays a crucial role in shaping the minds of future generations and promoting critical thinking and analytical skills. It is essential that education is based on facts and evidence and that it promotes a holistic understanding of history, culture, and society.
In conclusion, the revision of the Class 12th History syllabus and the removal of Mughal-related chapters have sparked controversy and debate among historians, educators, and politicians. While some argue that it is necessary to promote local and regional history, others view it as an attempt to rewrite history and promote a certain political ideology. It is important that education is free from political interference and that it promotes a holistic understanding of history and society.
