In a major update to the Indian education system, the NCERT textbook changes 2025 have stirred significant discussion by removing substantial content related to the Mughals and Delhi Sultanate from the history curriculum. This move, part of the broader NCERT education policy update 2025, has led to widespread debates among educators, students, and historians. Here’s everything you need to know about the NCERT history syllabus update, its implications, and what students should prepare for moving forward.
What Are the Changes in the NCERT History Textbooks?
The new NCERT history textbook editions for Classes 6 to 12 have seen a major revision. Under the NCERT curriculum revision 2025, chapters covering the establishment and expansion of the Delhi Sultanate, the reigns of Mughal emperors like Akbar, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb, and the administrative and cultural achievements of the Mughal era have been removed or heavily trimmed.
Key topics no longer emphasized include:
The political and cultural significance of the Delhi Sultanate.
Mughal architecture, administration, and contributions.
Important battles and historical policies of the Mughal and Delhi Sultanate rulers.
This Mughal history NCERT update aims to streamline content for a more focused educational approach.
Why Were These Changes Introduced?
As per NCERT officials, the NCERT syllabus changes medieval history are part of a "rationalization" strategy designed to:
Reduce academic pressure on students.
Eliminate redundancy across different class levels.
Prioritize critical thinking and modern historical relevance.
Although framed as a step towards a lighter and more contemporary syllabus, the removal of Mughal and Delhi Sultanate content — a major highlight in Mughals and Delhi Sultanate NCERT news — has received both support and criticism from different sectors.
How Will It Impact Students and Exams?
1. Less Memorization: Students will now deal with fewer complex historical narratives and timelines, simplifying school exam preparation.
2. Competitive Exam Considerations: Despite the changes in NCERT history books, competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, and State PSCs are likely to continue including questions about the Mughals and Delhi Sultanate. Thus, aspirants must independently study these periods.
3. Supplementary Learning Required: For a comprehensive understanding of India's rich history, students are advised to refer to additional resources beyond the NCERT new syllabus Class 6 to 12.
Expert Reactions to the NCERT Curriculum Changes
The reactions to the NCERT history syllabus update have been mixed:
Supporters argue that the revision reflects a more modernized and skill-oriented educational framework.
Critics warn that excluding key medieval history elements could leave students with a fragmented view of India’s past. They stress the importance of understanding the Mughal and Delhi Sultanate periods, which played pivotal roles in shaping India’s cultural and administrative foundations.
What Remains in the NCERT Syllabus?
Although the Mughals removed from NCERT and Delhi Sultanate dropped from syllabus are prominent changes, the curriculum still retains essential historical aspects like:
The Bhakti and Sufi movements.
Regional kingdoms and early modern Indian developments.
These remaining topics ensure that students still gain exposure to important facets of medieval Indian history.
Should Students Be Concerned?
If students are focused solely on passing school examinations under the NCERT new syllabus Class 6 to 12, they might not be significantly affected. However, those planning to pursue higher studies or competitive exams involving history must proactively explore supplementary materials covering the Mughal history NCERT update and Delhi Sultanate topics.
Conclusion
The NCERT textbook changes 2025 signify a substantial shift in how medieval Indian history is taught. While the intention is to make learning more manageable and aligned with modern needs, students passionate about history or those aiming for competitive exams should ensure they seek a fuller understanding through alternative resources.
Stay tuned to our blog for continuous updates on NCERT education policy update 2025, curriculum revisions, exam preparation tips, and much more to stay ahead in your educational journey!