The NCERT has removed all references to the Mughals and the Delhi Sultanate from its Class 7 Social Science textbooks, introducing instead new chapters on ancient Indian dynasties such as the Magadha, Mauryas, Shungas and Satavahanas, focusing on “Indian ethos.” A new chapter on sacred pilgrimage sites, titled “How the Land Becomes Sacred,” also highlights jyotirlingas, Char Dham yatra, Shakti pithas and sacred geographies.

These changes align with the New Education Policy (NEP) and the National Curriculum Framework (NCFSE) 2023, which emphasise Indian traditions, philosophies and knowledge systems.

The revised textbook portrays the varna-jati system as initially providing social stability but notes it became rigid under British rule. It also discusses the Maha Kumbh’s massive participation without mentioning the 2013 stampede tragedy.

A new entry describes the 2004 Supreme Court ruling allowing citizens to fly the national flag as part of the Fundamental Right to Freedom of Expression. “This changed in 2004 when a citizen felt it was his right to express pride in his country and challenged the rule in court. The Supreme Court agreed, saying that flying the flag is part of the Fundamental Right to Freedom of Expression. We can now fly the tricolour with pride, keeping in mind that it should never be dishonoured,” the chapter read.

More changes expected

NCERT officials stated this is just the first part of the revised book, with more changes expected. However, the deletions have sparked criticism from opposition parties, accusing NCERT of “saffronisation” of the curriculum. NCERT Director Dinesh Prasad Saklani defended the rationalisation, stating that teaching about riots could negatively influence young students. Notably, NCERT had removed portions refering to the Gujarat communal pogrom of 2002.

Internet reacts to new changes in NCERT

The latest revisions in NCERT textbooks have triggered mixed reactions online. While many criticised the move as targeting specific historical narratives, others welcomed it as a long-overdue correction.

“NCERT has dropped all portions on Mughals from Class 7 Books. Now Students will get to read about how Rajputs fought against nobody and lost,” one user posted. “NCERT had removed Delhi Sultanate and Mughals chapters from class 7 history books. Another controversial move. Trimming was sufficient- removal is extremes,” another added. 

Many users also hailed the decision and said, “NCERT removes Mughals, Delhi Sultanate from Class 7; introduces Mahakumbh, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, and Make in India. A much needed move by NCERT…!!” “Well done..that’s a start. Bulldoze the colonial curriculum and make Bharat the first priority,” fourth netizen commented.