Top News

NCERT states that the specific excerpt at the center of the controversy was drawn from its older history textbook, Hamare Atit–III (Our Pasts–III). This book was developed in accordance with the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) 2005.

A controversy has erupted regarding a specific excerpt within NCERT’s Class 8 history textbook, Hamare Atit–III. Objections have been raised—particularly by members of the Brahmin community—concerning an illustration and its accompanying caption featured in this excerpt. They contend that the interpretation of this illustration misrepresents the Brahmin community.

What is the Illustration in the Book, and What is its Context?

The chapter in question features an illustration depicting a Brahmin figure presenting Shastras—sacred scriptures—to ‘Britannia,’ the allegorical personification of Britain. This illustration is identified as part of the cover design for the first map of Hindustan, created by James Rennell in 1782. Historically, Robert Clive had commissioned James Rennell to survey and map India during that period. The British believed that creating maps was crucial for acquiring accurate knowledge of India’s diverse regions and for consolidating their dominion. Through maps, the British could gain a better understanding of India’s geography, cities, and territories, thereby facilitating easier administration and control.

What Message Does the Illustration Attempt to Convey?

According to the caption provided in the textbook, this illustration attempts to depict the people of India voluntarily handing over their sacred scriptures to Britannia. It implies that British rule arrived specifically to safeguard India’s culture and traditions. However, historians argue that such illustrations reflect the prevailing colonial—specifically British—perspective of that era. The British administration frequently sought to portray itself as the protector and guide of India; in reality, however, this served as a strategic means to legitimize their rule.

NCERT Issues Clarification

Following the escalation of the controversy, NCERT has issued a clarification regarding this matter. NCERT states that the specific excerpt at the center of the dispute was drawn from its older history textbook, Our Pasts–III. This book was developed in accordance with the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) 2005. According to NCERT, this older textbook is no longer part of the current curriculum. The institution has also clarified that it does not endorse the views or intent expressed in that particular excerpt.

Curriculum Revised Following New Education Policy

NCERT asserts that, in alignment with the New Education Policy (NEP 2020), new Social Science textbooks have been developed. In these new books, the relevant content has been rewritten, and the controversial section has been removed from the current curriculum. Consequently, the material currently being discussed on social media is no longer part of the academic syllabus. NCERT further stated that the objective of its textbooks is to foster understanding, balance, and social harmony within society.

Questions Raised Regarding Book Dated 2025-26

However, amidst these claims by NCERT, some individuals have raised questions regarding the fact that the image of the book being circulated on social media bears a reference to the 2025-2026 academic session. This has sparked a fresh round of discussion. Reports suggest that NCERT may soon issue another official statement on this matter to provide complete clarity on the situation.