Smriti Irani discusses new education policy with RSS-affiliated bodies

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Union HRD Minister Smriti Irani held discussions with the RSS-affiliated education bodies on Saturday as ministry prepares a new educational policy for India.

Irani is believed to have met these saffron bodies on education ahead of RSS’ three-day important conclave starting next week in Nainital.

Representatives from six RSS-affiliated bodies were reportedly present during the meeting, which took place in the presence of in the presence of RSS joint general secretary Krishna Gopal. They included members of Vidya Bharti, Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), Rashtriya Shaikshik Mahasangh, Bhartiya Shikshan Mandal, Sanskrit Bharti and Shiksha Bachao Andolan.

According to the report, the minister assured the RSS that the new revamped education policy will actively promote ancient Indian values besides aiming to instill nationalism and sense of pride among students.

Not too long the RSS ideologues such as Dinanath Batra had recommended introduction of vedic maths in schools throughout India and asked the BJP led government to effectively implement three-language formula in all Indian states. He had favoured incorporating vedic maths along with regular mathematic courses in classes so as to improve the level of “competency” among students in the subject.

Last week, another saffron body, Bhartiya Shikshan Mandal, had suggested the need for a compulsory introduction of mother tongue and one classical language for students from class 9-12.

Titled Bhartiya Education Outline had also suggested that after eight years of primary education, student will have to “compulsorily” study one economic activity based subject for the next four years.

Since becoming India’s new education minister, Irani’s capabilities and intention have under scrutiny both by educationists and her political detractors. But, she has always defended her decision to what many would describe as saffronisation of Indian education.

In June, while speaking at a conference organised by Hindu Education Board, Irani had said, “Is everything Indian not to be valued? Is it possible in any country that we shy away from our own inherent strength, that we shy away from our own inherent heritage, our culture, our glorious history.”

(With inputs from PTI)

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