The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has released a new Class 8 Social Science textbook that presents a critical view of the Mughal Empire and the Delhi Sultanate. This textbook is called ‘Exploring Society: India and Beyond’ and aims to give students a deeper understanding of Indian history.
The textbook describes Mughal rulers like Babur, Akbar, and Aurangzeb in a stark manner. Babur is characterized as a ‘brutal and ruthless conqueror’ who is said to have slaughtered entire populations. Akbar’s reign is described as a ‘blend of brutality and tolerance.’ Aurangzeb is highlighted for his acts of violence, including the destruction of temples and gurdwaras. This critical tone appears in a section titled “Note on Some Darker Periods in History.”
NCERT states that this section aims to provide students with a balanced view of history, stressing that no one today should be held accountable for the actions of the past. The inclusion of these historical events is seen as an effort to educate students about the complexities of Indian history.
Part 1 of this new textbook was released for the 2025-2026 academic session. It is the first textbook in the updated curriculum to cover the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughals. Previously, this period was taught in Class 7. The new syllabus now includes topics on the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughals, and the Marathas, aiming to provide a cohesive view of Indian history from the 13th to the 17th century.
A chapter called ‘Reshaping India’s Political Map’ discusses the rise and fall of these empires and the resistance they faced. The Sultanate era is portrayed as a time of political instability, military campaigns, and destruction of temples and learning centers. The textbook notes that many rulers were involved in temple attacks and other brutal acts.
The NCERT defends its choices by stating that these events, although dark, are a part of Indian history that must be acknowledged. It emphasizes an honest approach to history, suggesting that understanding these events can help prevent similar actions in the future.
In addition to the discussions of brutality, the textbook also highlights the resilience of Indian society in rebuilding after these turbulent times. It acknowledges the vibrant economic activity during this period, despite the challenges posed by invasions and conflicts.
This new textbook represents a significant shift from previous editions, which often downplayed or avoided discussing the violent aspects of Mughal rule. The NCERT had faced criticism for earlier revisions that removed references to the Mughal Empire entirely. The latest changes reflect a move towards a more nuanced understanding of Indian history, one that acknowledges both the achievements and the darker chapters of the past.
Critics argue that the portrayal of Muslim rulers as particularly brutal may oversimplify a complex history. However, NCERT maintains that this account is based on evidence and aims to provide a comprehensive picture of the past.
Overall, the new Class 8 Social Science textbook is expected to encourage students to think critically about history and its implications for the present and future. By addressing difficult topics head-on, the NCERT hopes to foster a more informed and reflective generation of learners.