In a significant shift toward integrating India’s cultural heritage into mainstream education, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has revised the Class 7 syllabus to include traditional Indian games and activities. The newly launched textbook introduces students to age-old physical and cultural practices such as kabaddi, gilli-danda, kho-kho, lagori (pitthu), and kalaripayattu, aiming to foster values of teamwork, discipline, and cultural identity alongside physical well-being.
This initiative is a part of the broader implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes the inclusion of Indian knowledge systems, arts, physical activity, and value-based learning in school education.
Blending Heritage and Health in Classrooms
The revised textbook is not limited to theoretical descriptions. It includes vivid illustrations, historical anecdotes, and step-by-step guidance for teachers to conduct physical education sessions featuring these games. Designed as part of the Health and Physical Education component, the new content promotes:
- Low-cost, accessible physical activities for all schools, especially in rural and resource-constrained areas.
- Cognitive and social skill-building through culturally rooted play.
- Gender-inclusive participation, as many of these games historically included both boys and girls.
Additionally, students will learn about the origin, rules, community significance, and regional variations of these games, allowing them to connect classroom learning to their family histories and local traditions.
NEP 2020 in Action: A Multidimensional Approach to Learning
The move echoes NEP 2020’s call to develop well-rounded individuals. By integrating play and tradition, the curriculum enhances:
- Experiential learning, going beyond rote memorization.
- Interdisciplinary connections, linking history, physical education, and art.
- Cultural preservation, by exposing students to games that are fading from urban memory.
The updated curriculum also introduces folk stories, moral education, yoga, and mindfulness practices, reinforcing character education and emotional wellness.
Implications for Teachers and Implementation
NCERT has provided teacher handbooks to facilitate contextual adaptation of these activities across geographies. Training sessions are expected to be conducted through SCERTs and DIETs (District Institutes of Education and Training). Experts believe this model of “learning by doing” can significantly enhance engagement and reduce screen time, especially in middle-school students.
The revised Class 7 book is part of a phased rollout, with similar updates planned for other grades over the next academic year.
