CBSE introduces course on 'Indian traditions' for class 11 & 12

The CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) has hereby introduced a new course about Indian Traditions. It believes that it will build immense pride and raise self-esteem of today's generation students.

The course shall be called 'Knowledge Traditions and Practices of India' which will be an elective subject for both Class 11 and class 12 students.

CBSE director Sadhana Parashar has written to affiliated schools saying "It is hoped that all heads of schools will adopt this new initiative of the Board and assist us in our endeavour to nurture our intellectual heritage". The letter adds "it has been the firm conviction of the CBSE that the basis of all education which it seeks to impart, is the development of a strong value system and a deep pride for India's knowledge traditions and practices. In the absence of an easily accessible source of information, the knowledge traditions and practices remain untapped leading to ignorance and misconceptions".

Through the introduction of the newly introduced elective course in Std XI in 2012-13 and in Std XII in 2013-14, the CBSE aims to make the students aware of Indian's ancient land and culture.

The CBSE has also clarified on the qualifications required by teachers to be able to teach these subjects. Parashar writes "the science based modules can be taught by teachers who have done post graduation in science, the humanities based modules can be taught by post graduate teachers of humanities subject".

Indian Culture and Today's Generation.

The culture of India refers to the way of life of the people of India. India's languages, religions, dance, music, architecture, food, and customs differ from place to place within the country. The Indian culture, often labeled as an amalgamation of several cultures, spans across the Indian subcontinent and includes traditions that are several millennia old. Many elements of India's diverse cultures, such as Indian religions, yoga, and Indian cuisine, have had a profound impact across the world.

India is one of the most religiously diverse nations in the world, with some of the most deeply religious societies and cultures. Religion still plays a central and definitive role in the life of many of its people.

Another factor for changes to Indian culture today is the influence of western culture. Many young men and women are sent to the United States, or other countries, to study and to acquire jobs. While away from India, they experience new rights of passage, independence and accept new cultural ideas.