Lessons on RSS, freedom fighters to be taught in Delhi schools under new 'Rashtraneeti' curriculum

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Government schools in Delhi will soon introduce a new curriculum called Rashtraneeti, which will feature chapters on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as well as important figures from India’s freedom movement, education minister Ashish Sood confirmed on Tuesday.

According to the officials, one of the highlights of the course is a chapter titled RSS@100, which will mark the organisation’s centenary. It will trace the RSS’s origins, philosophy, and role in nation-building.

The chapter is expected to explain its founding principles, focus on discipline and service, and its participation in social initiatives, including blood donation drives, disaster relief during the Kedarnath tragedy, and support activities during the Covid-19 pandemic, The Times of India reported.

Defending the move, Sood said, “What is wrong with learning about RSS? Introducing students to the history of a century-old organisation helps them understand the nation’s social and cultural fabric. Alongside, the curriculum will also include lessons on freedom fighters to strengthen students’ knowledge of India’s past.” He added that while the basic framework has been launched, the complete textbooks are being finalised.

Designed for classes I to XII, Rashtraneeti aims to promote civic awareness, ethical governance, and national pride, drawing from India’s diverse history of leaders, movements, and institutions. The curriculum will highlight both well-known and lesser-known freedom fighters, featuring leaders such as Veer Savarkar, Subhas Chandra Bose, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. A section will also cover the contributions of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who had strong ties with the RSS.

Officials said the curriculum has already been rolled out and is currently under review until October 15. Final textbooks are expected to be published by November. To support teachers, handbooks have been prepared, and training sessions are being conducted at SCERT to ensure effective classroom delivery.

Accordind to the TOI report, the focus of Rashtraneeti is not only on history but also on civic duties, democracy, and active citizenship, making it relevant for students across all classes.