Kerala Minister criticises NCERT’s decision to use Hindi titles for English textbooks

Kerala General Education Minister V. Sivankutty described the NCERT’s move as a serious irrationality and a cultural imposition that undermines India’s linguistic diversity

Kerala General Education Minister V. Sivankutty on Monday (April 14, 2025) criticised the reported decision of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to use Hindi titles for English-medium textbooks, describing it as a serious irrationality and a cultural imposition that undermines India’s linguistic diversity.

He argued that replacing long-standing English titles, which foster sensitivity and understanding among students, with Hindi titles such as ‘Mridangam’ and ‘Santoor’ is inappropriate.

This change, he contended, contradicts Kerala’s commitment to preserving linguistic diversity and prioritising regional cultural autonomy.

The Minister further stated that the NCERT’s decision undermines federal principles and constitutional values.

Textbook titles, he noted, are not merely labels; they shape students’ perceptions and imagination. Therefore, English-medium students should have English titles in their textbooks, he said.

He called upon the NCERT to review and withdraw this decision and urged all states to unite against such impositions. Education, he emphasised, should be a tool for empowerment and consensus, not a tool for imposition.