HP to make school syllabus more patriotic, focus on freedom movement & role of earlier generations

The initiative is being undertaken by the Education Department in collaboration with the Directorate of Education and the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT). During a review meeting at SCERT, Solan, the first draft of the revised curriculum was presented to Education Minister Rohit Thakur, who suggested further strengthening the content to ensure relevance and depth.

The draft proposes changes in history textbooks for Classes VI to VIII to move beyond conventional, book-centric learning. In addition to factual history, the curriculum will integrate creative thinking, life skills, and an understanding of Himachal’s art, literature, folk traditions, and historical sites. A detailed narrative of the state’s freedom struggle will be included, with special reference to local movements that inspired mass participation.

A prominent component would be the Pajouta Movement of Sirmaur, which is often recalled when the Quit India Movement of 1942 is discussed. Led by Vaidya Surat Singh along with Chet Singh, Bastiram Pahariya, Gulab Singh, and Man Singh, the movement began in the Pajouta region and rapidly spread across villages, symbolising grassroots resistance against British rule and the allied princely state.

Placing strong emphasis on the ideological intent of the reform, Rohit Thakur said the objective is to make the syllabus more patriotic after the state shifted government schools to the CBSE pattern. He stated that Generations X and Gen-Z must be made aware of the sacrifices, struggles, and values upheld by the “silent generation” that laid the foundation of India’s freedom and democratic traditions. According to him, understanding local and national freedom movements will help students connect history with identity, responsibility, and nation-building.

The minister added that over the past three years, education reforms in Himachal Pradesh have yielded positive outcomes, with the state climbing from 21st to fifth position in national education quality rankings. He said systematic infrastructure support, improved evaluation processes, and value-oriented content at every level are essential for holistic student development.

SCERT Principal Dr. Ritu Sharma Soni welcomed the chief guest. The meeting was attended by Sarvjot Singh Bahl, Ashish Kohli, Rajesh Sharma, Dr. Major Vishal Sharma, Dr. Amarjeet Sharma, B.R. Sharma, and other senior officials of the Education Department.