In a unanimous decision, the Gujarat legislative assembly passed a resolution endorsing the state's initiative to introduce teachings from the Bhagavad Gita into school education for students of Classes 6 to 12, aimed at instilling cultural pride and values among students.
The resolution, tabled by Minister of State for Education Praful Pansheriya, received bipartisan support, with AAP backing it and Congress, albeit with initial reservations, eventually lending their votes to the cause.
BHAGAVAD GITA TO BE TAUGHT IN CLASSES 6 TO 12
Minister Pansheriya underscored the importance of integrating Indian cultural heritage into students' lives, aligning with the National Education Policy 2020, which emphasises connecting students with India's diverse knowledge traditions.
Under this resolution, the Bhagavad Gita will be incorporated into the curriculum differently for various classes, fostering an understanding and appreciation of its philosophical essence among students.
For students in Classes 6 to 8, it will be taught in the form of stories and recitations. Meanwhile, students from Classes 9 to 12 will encounter the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita through their first-language textbooks.
Acknowledging the global significance of the Bhagavad Gita, Minister Pansheriya highlighted its influence on both Indian saints and Western thinkers, underscoring its timeless relevance.
REACTIONS FROM CONGRESS AND AAP
AAP MLA Umesh Makwana extended full support to the resolution, urging the government to ensure adequate resources for effective implementation, including the appointment of Sanskrit teachers.
GOVERNMENT RESOLUTION FROM 2022
Subsequently, on March 17, 2022, a government resolution was issued, mandating the introduction of the values and principles of the Bhagavad Gita to students from Classes 6 to 12 starting from the 2022-23 academic session.
Source: India Today