Top News

UGC has released a new graduation course draft, which will show a combination of traditional knowledge and modern education, although a controversy has arisen over the inclusion of Savarkar's book in history.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released a draft of the Learning Outcome Based Curriculum Framework (LOCF) for nine subjects at the undergraduate level. The commission says that the objective of this new curriculum is to make education more practical and result-based by not limiting it to mere rote learning.

According to UGC, this framework will help connect students with real-life challenges. Fieldwork, lab work, group discussions and interactive assignments have been made an important part of it. Through this, there is an emphasis on developing critical thinking, problem-solving and analytical skills in students.

What is special in the new curriculum?

Chemistry: It will begin with Saraswati Vandana. Students will be introduced to traditional systems of medicine like Ayurveda, Siddha and Homeopathy. Along with this, the medicinal importance of natural elements like milk, honey and water and traditional Indian beverages will also be studied.

Mathematics: Geometry will be taught from Shulba Sutras, astronomy and chronology from Surya Siddhanta and Aryabhatiyam. The concepts of Panchang calculation, Yuga and Kalpa will also be included in it. There will also be a special focus on the contribution of mathematicians like Aryabhata, Srinivasa Ramanujan and D.R. Kaprekar.

• Commerce: It includes modules like Kautilya's economics, linking corporate social responsibility with the concept of Ramrajya, leadership education from Bhagvad Gita and Bharat Bodh and Developed India.

• Anthropology: The texts of Ayurvedacharya Charak and surgical expert Sushruta have been made a part of the syllabus.

Controversy over history

The most controversy is about the subject of history. In this course, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar's book "The Indian War of Independence" has been suggested for the study related to the freedom struggle. This part has become the cause of controversy.

Critics say that if the freedom movement is taught only from Savarkar's perspective, it will reduce the diversity and comprehensiveness of the movement. They believe that there were many streams in the freedom struggle, including Gandhi, Nehru, Bhagat Singh, Subhash Chandra Bose, which should be taught in a balanced manner.

On the other hand, some academics believe that ignoring Savarkar's contribution would also be injustice to history. They say that it is important to introduce students to every perspective so that they can reach the right conclusion themselves.