NCERT Unveils Revamped Class 6 Social Science Textbook with Significant Changes

New Delhi: The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has released a new Class 6 social science textbook that introduces several notable changes to the curriculum. The updated book, titled “Exploring Society – India and Beyond,” combines history, geography, and civics into a single volume, reflecting the latest National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023.

One of the key additions is the concept of “Madhya Rekha,” described as India’s prime meridian predating the Greenwich Meridian. The textbook explains that this ancient reference line passed through Ujjain, a renowned centre for astronomy.

The Harappan civilization has been renamed the “Sindhu-Sarasvati” or “Indus-Sarasvati” civilization, with increased emphasis on the Sarasvati River’s significance in ancient Indian history. The book highlights the river’s mention in the Rig Veda and its importance to major cities of the civilization.

Content related to the caste system has been significantly reduced, with less focus on social restrictions and discrimination. Information about ancient Indian kingdoms has also been condensed, with many previously detailed accounts now omitted or briefly mentioned.

NCERT Director Dinesh Saklani explained that the revisions aim to focus on “big ideas” and create a more streamlined curriculum. He defended the changes, stating that they are based on facts and evidence, and are not attempts to “saffronize” the curriculum.

These revisions mark the fourth round of changes to NCERT textbooks since 2014, reflecting a shift towards a broader, theme-based approach to social science education in India.