The Gujarat government has recently announced that Bhagavad Gita will now be included in the school curriculum for students of Classes 6 to 12 across all schools in the state. The plan is to teach key teachings and stories from the Gita as part of moral and value education. This initiative will begin from the academic year 2025-26 and apply to government, private, and aided schools. According to officials, the idea is not to promote any religion, but to help students understand life values, ethics, and discipline through the ancient text.
I’m writing about this topic because it’s not just about an academic change—it’s a decision that will affect lakhs of students and their understanding of culture, values, and spiritual thinking. As someone who has studied in a government school myself, I know how impactful school lessons can be, especially when they stay with you for life. With education becoming more competitive and stressful these days, many believe that teachings from the Gita could offer a fresh way to manage emotions and challenges. At the same time, this move has also sparked debate about whether religious texts should be part of the school syllabus. I believe it’s important we talk about both sides and understand what this change actually means.
What Exactly Has Been Announced?
The Gujarat education department has decided to introduce the Bhagavad Gita in a phased manner:
- From Classes 6 to 8, selected shlokas and simple moral lessons from the Gita will be part of the curriculum under ‘values and ethics’ subjects.
- For Classes 9 to 12, a deeper understanding will be added including life lessons, practical applications, and important stories from the Mahabharata.
- The content will be designed in a simplified and neutral way, not linked to religious preaching but focused on personal development.
- Schools will use interactive methods like storytelling, group discussions, and activities to keep students engaged.
This is not the first time moral education has been discussed in schools, but this move gives it a strong cultural link.
Why Is the Gita Being Introduced in Schools?
According to Gujarat’s education minister, the goal is to help students learn values like truth, patience, discipline, and responsibility. The Gita is being treated as a philosophical text, not a religious scripture, at least officially.
Supporters of this move say:
- The Gita teaches how to face problems calmly and make decisions wisely.
- It promotes self-control, respect for others, and clarity of thought.
- It could help reduce student stress and anxiety in a pressure-filled academic environment.
Mixed Reactions From the Public
While many welcomed the move, saying that Indian students should be taught their cultural heritage, others have raised concerns. Some feel it may blur the line between religious education and public schooling. A few key concerns include:
- Will the government introduce teachings from other religions too?
- Are schools prepared with trained teachers who can explain the Gita in a balanced way?
- What about students who belong to different faiths?
The education department has said that the Gita will be taught in a way that respects all backgrounds and focuses only on values.
My Take on This Development
Personally, I think the idea of teaching values in schools is very important, especially now when students are under more pressure than ever. If taught properly, the Gita can offer great life lessons like staying calm in tough times, doing one’s duty, and staying detached from the result—things even adults struggle with.
But at the same time, it should not become one-sided. If schools are teaching from one text, they should also give space to value teachings from other cultures and religions, so all students feel included. After all, India is a country of many beliefs, and our education system should reflect that unity.
