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NCERT Erases Disputed Map from Class 8 English Textbook
4 Apr
Summary
- NCERT removed a disputed map from the Class 8 English textbook.
- The map incorrectly showed Jaisalmer as part of the Maratha Empire.
- Objections from historians and royal families led to the map's removal.
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has revised its Class 8 Social Science English textbook, removing a disputed map from its recently released digital edition for the 2026-27 academic session. This updated version now excludes the controversial depiction that had previously appeared on page 71 of the 2025-26 English textbook.
The map in question had incorrectly shown Jaisalmer as being part of the Maratha Empire. Following significant objections from historians, Rajput organizations, and several royal families in Rajasthan, NCERT had already removed the map from the Hindi version of the textbook for the 2025-26 academic year. The latest action extends this correction to the English version.
Representatives from royal families, including those from Jaisalmer, Mewar, and Bundi, along with public representatives, had formally appealed to the central government. They argued that the map presented a historically misleading and factually incorrect representation of the Maratha Empire's reach. Chaitanya Raj Singh, a former member of the Jaisalmer royal family, was particularly vocal, calling the depiction a serious error and demanding immediate correction.
NCERT's decision has been welcomed by various groups, including members of the former Jaisalmer royal family and Rajput leaders. They expressed satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of presenting unbiased, fact-based historical information to students. Devendra Pratap Singh, Director of the Jaisalmer Fort Palace Museum, confirmed that there is no historical evidence to support the map's depiction and termed the removal a positive step forward.
Vikram Singh Nachna, another royal family member, reiterated the strong objections raised against the map, calling it misleading and contrary to historical facts. The removal of the map has brought a sense of happiness to the people of Jaisalmer, who believe that questioning their region's proud history without solid evidence is unacceptable. This move is seen as a crucial step in maintaining historical accuracy and public sentiment.
