NCERT Sets Up Panel to Reassess Maratha Empire Map in Class 8 Textbook

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has constituted an expert committee to re-evaluate the depiction of the Maratha Empire in a Class 8 map following feedback and concerns raised by historians and educators.

The review aims to ensure historical accuracy and address sensitivities related to the Maratha legacy in school textbooks.

In a significant academic development, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has announced the formation of an expert panel to review the Class 8 Social Science textbook map, specifically focusing on the representation of the Maratha Empire. The move comes amid growing concerns from historians, researchers, and stakeholders about historical inaccuracies and incomplete portrayal of the Maratha dominion.

This initiative was prompted after several historians and state governments flagged the issue, stating that the geographical extent of the Maratha Empire in the map used in the NCERT Class 8 book appeared inaccurate or underrepresented, particularly when compared to well-documented historical records. The NCERT has responded by saying that periodic curriculum revision is part of its mandate under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The expert committee comprises academic historians, curriculum developers, and pedagogical experts who will assess the current map and suggest modifications. The revised map is expected to provide a more comprehensive depiction of the Maratha Empire, which played a crucial role in resisting Mughal rule and expanding regional governance across large parts of India in the 18th century.

This development also highlights the importance of historical representation in education, especially in NCERT textbooks used across CBSE schools in India. Ensuring accuracy in educational resources not only enhances student understanding but also upholds cultural heritage and historical integrity.

The NCERT clarified that this review is not politically motivated but a pedagogical correction to reflect authentic historical data and promote inclusive history. Once finalized, the corrected map and associated textual changes will be incorporated in future editions of the Class 8 Social Science books, most likely from the 2026 academic session.