NCERT Class 6 Gets a ‘Bharat’ TWIST in All-New English Textbook

New Delhi: The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) on Thursday introduced an English language textbook for Class 6 students named 'Poorvi'. The book slated to be launched on May is designed to prioritize Indian content and context. The older version of the NCERT English Textbook named Honeysuckle is different from Poorvi in many ways. 

"Poorvi comprises stories, poems and narratives that ensure a reflection of their social, cultural and geographical landscape wherin they are sure to find traces of their lived experiences," said Dinesh Prasad Saklani, Director of NCERT. 

Everything you need to know about 'Poorvi' 

1. Poorvi includes nine prose pieces rooted in Indian culture

2. Poorvi to provide more localised and relatable context for Indian students 

3. Poorvi to present literature resonating closely with the students' own experiences and cultural background

4. Western authors' works replaced by Indian authors 

5. Poorvi includes a three-page section on the benefits of Yoga

Mind behind launch of Poorvi 

The development of Poorvi involved a collaborative effort from various individuals. Kirti Kapur, Professor at the Department of Education in Languages at NCERT, served as the Member Convener, likely playing a central role in coordinating and overseeing the project. Additionally, the book benefitted from the guidance of Mahesh Chandra Pant and Manjul Bhargava, who co-chaired the National Steering Committee (NSTC) and oversaw the Curricular Area Group (CAG) for Languages. The final product also reflects the insights of reviewers Anurag Behar (CEO, Azim Premji Foundation) and Mira Bhargava (Professor Emeritus, Hofstra University), who provided valuable feedback as members of the National Curriculum Framework Oversight Committee.

Poorvi: Celebrating Heritage and Values Through Engaging Lessons on ‘Bharat’

Poorvi goes beyond mere storytelling. It delves into the rich tapestry of Indian culture and heritage. Unit 5, titled "Culture and Tradition", exemplifies this approach. As Kirti Kapur, Professor and Member Convener of the Curricular Area Group: Languages (English) at NCERT, explains, this unit "aims to reawaken the spirit of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat among the students," a national initiative fostering unity and celebrating India's diversity.