Upanishads to Mahabharata: NCERT explains roots of national, SC mottos
A new NCERT Class IX textbook in India traces the origins of national and Supreme Court mottos to ancient texts like the Upanishads and the Mahabharata. The curriculum aims to link modern governance values with India's historical and cultural heritage.
Why it matters
The integration of ancient texts into modern educational curricula reflects ongoing debates about national identity and the role of tradition in Indian governance.
New Delhi: NCERT’s new Class IX social science textbook traces India’s national motto, “Satyameva Jayate”, to the Mundaka Upanishad and the Supreme Court’s “Yato Dharmastato Jayah” to the Mahabharata, linking modern institutions to ancient texts. The lesson presents these connections as expressions of the values and responsibilities that should guide governance in a democracy.“Understanding Society: India and Beyond”, Part 2, became available on Tuesday, September 29, nearly six months into the academic session. Part 1 came out in June. The six-chapter volume, which TOI reported on Wednesday, spans history, geography, political science and economics under the National Education Policy 2020 and National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023.The chapter “Governance and Public Policy” translates the national motto as “Truth alone triumphs” and the Supreme Court’s motto as “Where there is Dharma (righteous duty), there is victory”.
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