NCERT Kannada Textbook Faces Objections Over Alleged Cultural Bias and Lack of Diversity

The People's Forum for Right to Education (PAFRE) has raised objections to the newly introduced NCERT Class 6 Kannada textbook, alleging that it promotes cultural and ideological imposition while sidelining Karnataka's linguistic and cultural diversity.

In a press statement, the forum claimed that the textbook lacks representation of Karnataka's rich social and cultural landscape, including folklore, literature, and lifestyles from regions such as Coastal Karnataka, North Karnataka, Malnad, and Old Mysuru. It argued that the content, illustrations, activities, and stories are inadequate for the learning needs of Class 6 students, and that the narration adopts a preachy tone rather than an engaging educational approach.

PAFRE also questioned the decision to name the textbook 'Krishna', noting that earlier textbooks were named 'Mridula' for Class 3 and 'Krishna' for Class 6. The organisation alleged that this reflects an increasing introduction of mythology and religious themes into school education following the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. It described the move as an attempt at the 'saffronisation' of education, a term used by critics to denote a perceived ideological slant.

According to the group, Karnataka's identity is rooted in literary and social icons such as Pampa, Kuvempu, Karanth, and Basavanna. It argued that giving the textbook a religiously associated name sidelines local cultural and intellectual traditions.

Additionally, PAFRE raised concerns over a lesson on nutrition and health, claiming it promotes a vegetarian-centric narrative. It noted that illustrations of balanced meals include foods like ragi mudde, roti, rice, vegetables, milk, and fruits, but omit eggs, fish, and meat. The group alleged that this ignores the dietary practices of large sections of Karnataka's population, including fish consumption in coastal regions and meat-based dishes in North Karnataka.

Calling the approach 'cultural imposition through education,' the organisation demanded immediate revisions to the textbook. Its key demands include ensuring representation of all regions and dietary practices, and renaming the textbook to reflect Karnataka's secular and diverse heritage.