Kerala General Education Minister V. Sivankutty describes NCERT’s move as serious irrationality and a cultural intensity that undermines the linguistic diversity in India
Kerala General Education Minister V. Sivankutty criticized the decision of the National Council on Educational Research and Training (NCERT) on Monday (14 April 2025) to demand the use of Hindi titles for English intermediate textbooks and describe it as a serious irrational and culturally heavy attitude to undermine the linguistic diversity in India.
He believes that replacing Hindi champions such as “Mridangam” and “Santoor” for a long time has promoted sensitivity and understanding among students, which is inappropriate.
He believes that this change contradicts Kerala’s commitment to maintaining linguistic diversity and prioritizing regional cultural autonomy.
The Minister further pointed out that the NCERT decision undermined federal principles and constitutional values.
He noted that textbook titles are not just labels. They shape students’ perceptions and imaginations. Therefore, his textbooks should have English champions for middle English students.
He called on NCERT to review and withdraw the decision and urged all states to unite in case of such expropriation. He stressed that education should be a tool of empowerment and consensus, not an imposed tool.
publishing – April 15, 2025 03:17 AM IST
