The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has introduced significant changes to its history textbooks in 2025, sparking widespread debate across academic, political, and public spheres.
These revisions are part of a broader curriculum overhaul aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aiming to make education more experiential, inclusive, and rooted in Indian contexts.
Key Changes in Content and Narrative
- Reframing of Mughal History
The new Class 8 textbook, Exploring Society: India and Beyond, presents a more critical view of the Mughal rulers:
- Babur is described as “brutal and ruthless.”
- Akbar is portrayed as a “blend of brutality and tolerance.”
- Aurangzeb is said to have “destroyed temples and gurdwaras”.
These descriptions appear in a new section titled “Some Darker Periods in History,” which encourages students to understand historical actions without attributing blame to present generations.
- Omission of Prominent Women Rulers
Influential female figures such as Raziyya Sultan and Nur Jehan have been removed from the Class 8 history curriculum2. Critics argue this erases important contributions of women in Indian history, while NCERT maintains the changes are part of a thematic restructuring. - Emphasis on Indigenous Resistance
The revised textbooks highlight resistance movements and indigenous leadership:
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is celebrated as a master strategist who upheld Hindu values while respecting other religions.
- Leaders like Ahilyabai Holkar, Tarabai, and Rajput and Sikh warriors are given more prominence for their roles in resisting imperial rule.
Pedagogical Shifts Under NEP 2020
The 2025 updates are not limited to content but also reflect a shift in teaching methodology:
- Activity-based learning replaces rote memorization.
- Local culture and region-specific illustrations are integrated to enhance relatability.
- Digital literacy, mental health, and sustainability are introduced as interdisciplinary themes.
These changes affect multiple classes:
Class 3: English, Mathematics, Environmental Studies
Class 6: Science, Mathematics, Social Science
Class 9: All core subjects including History
Rollout and Implementation
Textbook Release: June 15, 2025
Distribution to Schools: By July 5, 2025
Classroom Implementation: From July 15, 2025
Teacher Training: Over 1.2 million teachers are undergoing workshops to adapt to the new curriculum 3.
Public and Academic Reactions
The changes have drawn mixed reactions. Supporters argue the revisions correct historical imbalances and promote national pride. Critics warn of ideological bias and historical distortion, particularly in the portrayal of Muslim rulers.
Whereas the NCERT officials defend the updates as necessary reforms to align with NEP 2020 and to foster critical thinking among students.
