NCERT, India’s national council for educational research and training, has removed Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution from its latest edition of science textbooks. This decision has sparked widespread outrage among scientists and educators, with over 1800 of them signing an open letter condemning the move.
The letter, addressed to the NCERT, argues that removing Darwin’s theory from the textbooks is a regressive step that undermines the scientific progress made over the last two centuries. The signatories include scientists, educators, and researchers from various fields, including biology, genetics, and anthropology.
More About It
According to the letter, evolution is a fundamental concept that forms the basis of modern biology and is essential for understanding the diversity of life on Earth. The removal of this theory from the textbooks will not only confuse students but also hinder their ability to think critically and understand the natural world.
The NCERT’s decision has also been criticized for its potential to promote superstition and pseudoscience. Some experts have expressed concern that removing Darwin’s theory could pave the way for the inclusion of unscientific ideas in science education, leading to a generation of students with a flawed understanding of scientific concepts.
The NCERT, on the other hand, has defended its decision by stating that the move was made to reduce the curriculum’s burden and promote indigenous knowledge. The council has stated that the textbooks will now focus more on traditional Indian knowledge systems and their contributions to science and technology.
However, this explanation has not been accepted by the signatories of the open letter, who argue that promoting indigenous knowledge should not come at the cost of removing established scientific principles. The letter also highlights that Darwin’s theory is widely accepted and taught in science curricula worldwide, and its removal will not only harm students but also damage India’s scientific reputation.
