PM Flags NCERT Textbook Lapse, Education Ministry Assures Corrective Action

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sought accountability over a controversial reference to the judiciary in a Class 8 Social Science textbook brought out by the National Council of Educational Research and Training, directing that responsibility be fixed for what has been described as a lapse in content.

The issue pertains to a chapter dealing with the structure and functioning of the judiciary. Questions were raised over the framing of certain passages, prompting the Prime Minister to ask how the material was cleared and whether established review procedures were followed before publication.

Following the remarks, the Ministry of Education said it would examine the matter and take appropriate steps. Officials indicated that the content is under review and that necessary corrections will be made after due consultation with subject experts.

The development has intensified debate over the process through which school textbooks are vetted and approved. Educationists have argued that while periodic revisions are part of curriculum updates, transparency in editorial oversight is critical to maintaining public confidence in national institutions.

NCERT textbooks are used widely across central and state schools and often serve as reference material beyond the classroom. Any change in content, particularly in subjects dealing with constitutional bodies, tends to draw close attention from policymakers and academics alike.

The controversy comes at a time when textbook revisions in recent years have already generated discussion over the scope and direction of curricular changes. With the latest intervention from the highest political level, officials are expected to expedite the review and clarify the corrective course to schools and teachers.