The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has stirred up controversy once more by removing the periodic table from Class 10 textbooks, following their earlier decision to exclude Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution from the same textbooks.
These deletions are part of the syllabus rationalisation process that began during the pandemic and have now become permanent changes. Scientists and teachers are expressing concerns about the long-term impact of omitting these crucial subjects from the curriculum.
The periodic table will now only be taught to students who choose to study chemistry in the final two years of their education, while topics related to Darwin’s theory of evolution can be learned if students opt for the relevant subject in Class 11 and 12.
The rationale behind these removals has not been explicitly stated, but it is believed to be part of the ongoing syllabus rationalisation process initiated by the NCERT in response to disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Scientists and teachers are worried that the exclusion of the periodic table from Class 10 textbooks may hinder students’ understanding of essential chemical principles, while removing Darwin’s theory of evolution could impede their comprehension of biological concepts and the diversity of life forms.
While syllabus rationalisation is necessary, critics argue that a balance must be struck between reducing the curriculum load and providing students with a comprehensive education.
NCERT textbooks have previously faced controversy, with accusations of promoting a particular political ideology aligned with the ruling party. The NCERT, established in 1961, advises central and state governments on academic matters related to school education
