The Gujarat government has introduced a supplementary textbook on the ‘Bhagavad Gita’ for classes 6 to 8, aiming to connect students to India’s rich, diverse, and ancient culture and knowledge systems. Minister of State for Education Praful Pansheriya announced that this decision aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) drafted by the Central government three years ago. Under the NEP-2020, the state education department decided to include the spiritual principles and values of the ‘Shrimad Bhagavad Gita’ as a supplementary textbook in the curriculum for these classes.
Pansheriya expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, emphasizing that this academic decision would make students proud and connected to India’s rich cultural heritage. The move is expected to instill moral values among students through the teachings of the revered scripture. Pansheriya noted that this decision, guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is an important step in improving values among students. The textbook was launched on Gita Jayanti, marking the day the Bhagavad Gita conversation occurred between Arjuna and Lord Krishna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
This initiative aligns with the NEP 2020, emphasizing the introduction of both modern and ancient culture, traditions, and knowledge systems into the school curriculum, fostering a sense of pride among students. The Gujarat government had previously announced in March last year that the Bhagavad Gita would be included in the school syllabus for classes 6 to 12. Although the decision faced legal challenges, the government proceeded with the plan to integrate the values and principles of the holy book into the education system. Two more parts of the textbook, meant for students of classes 9 to 12, are expected to be made available soon.
Post Your Comments