NCERT Adds ‘Economic Background’ As A Factor For Discrimination In New Class 8 Textbook

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has introduced economic background as one of the factors contributing to discrimination in its newly released Class 8 Social Science textbook. The revised content expands the discussion on discrimination by highlighting that individuals may face unequal treatment due to their financial status, in addition to factors such as caste, religion, gender and disability.

The updated chapter explains that discrimination can occur when people are treated unfairly because of differences in their social, cultural or economic circumstances. By including economic background, the textbook aims to help students understand that poverty and financial inequality can also influence how individuals are perceived and treated in society.

According to NCERT, the revised textbook has been developed in line with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasises experiential learning, critical thinking and value-based education. The new content encourages students to recognise different forms of discrimination and promotes empathy, equality and respect for diversity.

The textbook uses real-life examples and classroom discussions to help learners identify discriminatory practices and understand the importance of constitutional values such as justice, liberty, equality and fraternity.

NCERT has been revising school textbooks across classes under the new curriculum framework introduced following the implementation of NEP 2020. The updated books aim to make learning more relevant, activity-based and aligned with contemporary educational objectives.

The inclusion of economic background as a factor in discrimination reflects an effort to broaden students’ understanding of social inequality and the multiple dimensions through which discrimination can manifest in everyday life.