NCERT Revises Class 12 Political Science Textbook, Alters Content on India-China Relations and More

These revisions impact crucial sections discussing India-China relations, Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK), Article 370, and the removal of references to Khalistan.

India-China Relations: Contextual Shifts

One of the key alterations pertains to the portrayal of India-China relations within the textbook 'Contemporary World Politics.' The NCERT has modified the language used to describe historical events, emphasizing the shift from the hopeful 'Hindi-Chini Bhai Bhai' era under Nehru's leadership to subsequent challenges, including the 1962 war over territorial disputes. The revision aims to provide a more nuanced and contextual understanding of this complex bilateral relationship.

Change in Terminology: From 'Azad Pakistan' to 'POJK'

Furthermore, the textbook 'Politics In India since Independence' has been updated to replace the term 'Azad Pakistan' with 'Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK).' This change reflects the official stance of the Indian government regarding the region's status and underscores the ongoing discourse on territorial integrity.

Removal of Khalistan References

In a notable move, references to Khalistan, the separatist movement seeking a separate Sikh state, have been expunged from the syllabus. The updated version emphasizes federalism without linking it to secessionist aspirations, aligning with contemporary political sensitivities and historical narratives.

Article 370: Incorporating Recent Developments

Moreover, the textbook now includes information on the abrogation of Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. This addition acknowledges the significant constitutional amendment made in August 2019, providing students with updated and relevant information.

Adjustments in Visual Content

In addition to textual changes, the NCERT has replaced a cartoon questioning the survival of India's democracy post-2014 with a different activity, citing concerns over the portrayal of India in a negative light. This adjustment underscores the importance of presenting balanced and constructive narratives in educational materials.

These revisions by the NCERT reflect a concerted effort to ensure that textbooks reflect current political contexts and official positions. The updates aim to enhance students' understanding of critical political issues while aligning with the evolving landscape of Indian governance and diplomacy.

The NCERT's revisions to the Class 12 Political Science textbook signal a commitment to providing students with accurate and updated information on key political developments. By incorporating recent events and adjusting language and imagery, the textbooks aim to foster a more informed and nuanced understanding of India's political landscape and international relations. These changes underscore the importance of maintaining educational materials that reflect contemporary realities and official perspectives.