The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has unveiled its new Class 8 science textbook that blends modern scientific principles with India’s ancient wisdom and discoveries. This 228-page book, developed in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023, aims to foster curiosity while encouraging students to appreciate India’s scientific legacy.
Educationist and former NCERT director J.S. Rajput told Hindustan Times, this integration aligns with UNESCO's 1996 report "Learning: The Treasure Within", which emphasized that 21st-century education must be culturally rooted yet progressive. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of keeping doors open to new ideas without losing one's foundation, Rajput praised the new initiative as a meaningful step in making learning more holistic and culturally relevant.
The textbook includes engaging sections such as "Ever Heard Of?" and "Our Scientific Heritage". These segments introduce students to fascinating facts from Indian tradition that connect with modern concepts. From the idea of Parmanu (atoms) introduced by ancient philosopher Acharya Kanad to the practical astronomy methods of mathematician Bhaskara II using water bowls and angled tubes, the book demonstrates how India’s scientific thought predates and complements modern discoveries.
One chapter, “Health: The Ultimate Treasure”, sheds light on variolation, a traditional Indian method used to prevent smallpox long before the development of modern vaccines. It also highlights India’s contemporary role in global healthcare, mentioning how Indian vaccine manufacturers played a crucial part during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the chapter “Particulate Nature of Matter”, the ancient atomic theory of Acharya Kanad is introduced. He theorized that all matter is composed of indivisible particles called Parmanu, as mentioned in his treatise Vaisheshika Sutras. Another chapter discusses the use of bronze or Kamsya, an alloy of copper and tin, in traditional medicine to enhance digestion and immunity.
Further exploring India’s scientific contributions, the textbook refers to Bhaskara II’s astronomical techniques using water reflections to study celestial bodies—demonstrating early applications of optical principles. The chapter “Keeping Time with the Skies” features verses from the Taittiriya Samhita, describing the Sun’s apparent six-month north-south journey, along with references to Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) achievements such as Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, and Aditya L1 missions.
Emphasizing inquiry-based and experiential learning, the textbook encourages students to ask questions and understand concepts through real-life examples. It integrates subjects such as physics, chemistry, biology, and earth science with themes of environmental responsibility, ethical thinking, and cultural awareness.
Sushma Yadav, Vice Chancellor of Central University of Haryana, welcomed the move, stating that students connect better with education when it reflects their own cultural context. “By showcasing India’s scientific contributions, NCERT is helping students develop both modern knowledge and cultural pride,” she said.
The book also features a “Be a Scientist” section, highlighting the achievements of Indian scientists like Vikram Sarabhai, Meghnad Saha, Asima Chatterjee, Kamal Ranadive, and M.K. Bhan, inspiring the next generation to pursue science with purpose and passion.
NCERT has been steadily rolling out new textbooks aligned with NEP 2020. After introducing new books for Classes 1 and 2 in 2023 and for Classes 3 and 6 in 2024, the council is releasing updated textbooks for Classes 4, 5, 7, and 8 this year—each designed to make learning more contextual, interactive, and rooted in India’s diverse intellectual traditions.
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