In a significant shift towards cultural inclusivity and national identity, NCERT has unveiled a revamped Class 6 English language textbook titled ‘Poorvi’. This initiative, aligned with the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) 2023, marks a departure from its predecessor by infusing a distinctly ‘Made in India’ essence into its content.
Embracing Indigenous Narratives
The new textbook marks a departure from its predecessor’s predominantly Western-centric content. Where the old textbook featured works predominantly by non-Indian authors, the ‘Poorvi’ textbook predominantly showcases Indian narratives. It retains only five poems by non-Indian authors, while the prose pieces primarily unfold in Indian settings, featuring Indian characters. This deliberate shift underscores NCERT’s commitment to reflecting India’s cultural tapestry and local ethos in its educational materials.
Inclusion of Bharat: A Cultural Reverence
A notable inclusion in the revamped textbook is the prominent use of ‘Bharat’ alongside ‘India’. In the chapter titled “Culture and Tradition”, ‘Bharat’ is mentioned 19 times compared to ‘India’s seven mentions, signifying a conscious effort to integrate traditional terminology that resonates deeply with the country’s cultural roots. This linguistic choice not only reflects linguistic diversity but also promotes a sense of pride and cultural identity among young learners.
Alignment with National Education Policy 2020
The transformation of the Class 6 English textbook is in harmony with the goals set forth in the National Education Policy 2020. This policy advocates for curricula that are rooted in Indian values, traditions, and knowledge systems. By replacing Western-authored pieces with stories like Sudha Murthy’s tale of Rama Natha’s quest and S.I. Farooqui’s enchanting dialogue between Amber and a neem tree, NCERT embraces narratives that are quintessentially Indian.
Promoting Health and Wellness through Yoga
Moreover, the ‘Poorvi’ textbook integrates chapters on ‘Health and Wellness’ that highlight the benefits of yoga, a practice deeply rooted in India’s ancient traditions. This inclusion not only promotes physical well-being but also educates students about the holistic benefits of yoga, fostering a deeper understanding of India’s cultural contributions to global wellness practices.
NCERT’s initiative to revamp the Class 6 English textbook represents a significant step towards aligning education with cultural values and indigenous narratives. By emphasizing ‘Made in India’ content and integrating Bharat into its lexicon, NCERT not only enriches educational content but also nurtures a sense of cultural pride among young learners. This move underscores India’s diverse heritage and reaffirms the importance of localized educational content in shaping holistic learning experiences.
Saathee Global
