UGC draft curriculum emphasizes 'ancient wisdom' and Indian knowledge systems across disciplines

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released a draft Learning Outcomes-based Curriculum Framework (LOCF) for various subjects, which significantly emphasizes the inclusion of Indian knowledge systems and "ancient wisdom." This initiative, currently open for stakeholder feedback, has drawn criticism from non-BJP-ruled states concerned about "saffronisation" of the curriculum. Examples include Kautilya's Arthashastra in commerce, traditional Indian beverages in chemistry, and ancient Indian concepts of atom in physics. While the National Education Policy promotes multidisciplinary education, the LOCF primarily prioritizes single-major pathways, potentially limiting broader interdisciplinary exploration.

Key Points

  • The UGC's draft curriculum framework (LOCF) aims to integrate Indian knowledge systems and ancient wisdom across various academic disciplines.
  • The framework includes specific examples like Kautilya's Arthashastra in commerce and traditional Indian beverages in chemistry.
  • The initiative has sparked debate, with some states expressing concerns about the "saffronisation" of education.
  • Despite the National Education Policy's emphasis on multidisciplinary courses, the LOCF primarily focuses on single-major pathways.

Exam Facts

  • The University Grants Commission (UGC) released the draft Learning Outcomes-based Curriculum Framework (LOCF).
  • The LOCF suggests including Kautilya's Arthashastra in commerce education.
  • V.D. Savarkar's Indian War of Independence is included in the reading list for 'Bharatiya Struggle for Independence'.
  • The curriculum proposes teaching traditional Indian fermented beverages like kanji, mahua, and toddy in chemistry.

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All current affairs of 23 August 2025