The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has included the 1975-77 Emergency period in its Class 9 Social Science textbook. This marks the first time the topic appears at this educational level.
Emergency Section Added to Textbook
The Emergency is now part of Chapter 6, titled "Democracy and its Challenges," in the textbook "Understanding Society: India and Beyond (Part 1)". Previously, the subject was covered only in Class 12 political science books.
Details of the Emergency Explained
The textbook describes the Emergency as a significant challenge to Indian democracy. It states the period began in June 1975 due to widespread dissatisfaction. Factors cited include rising unemployment, inflation, and alleged misgovernment under then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
During the Emergency , fundamental rights were suspended. The press faced censorship. Many political leaders and activists were arrested.
Citizen Participation Highlighted
The chapter also covers the mass movement led by Jayaprakash Narayan. It notes that students and citizens actively participated in these protests. Movements occurred in states like Bihar and Gujarat.
The Emergency concluded in 1977 . This led to general elections, allowing citizens to exercise their voting rights.
NCERT's Objective
NCERT aims to bridge the gap between textbook content and students' socio-political understanding. Introducing the Emergency connects the history of Indian democracy with citizen participation.
