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NCERT New Module: The primary goal is to educate students on how the spirit of the Swadeshi Movement of 1905 remains integral to the vision of a “self-reliant India.”
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has taken a significant step to support the Government of India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ campaign by launching two educational modules titled ‘Swadeshi, Vocal for Local.’ These modules extend beyond traditional textbooks, helping students connect India’s illustrious history with its current journey towards economic self-reliance. (Representative image/File)
The primary goal is to educate students on how the spirit of the Swadeshi Movement of 1905 remains integral to the vision of a “self-reliant India.” Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 79th Independence Day speech, which emphasised self-reliance as the “foundation of national strength and dignity,” this initiative fosters not only economic development but also instils a sense of national pride and responsibility. (Representative image/File)
NCERT’s new modules incorporate the historical context of the Swadeshi movement and emphasise the significance of key sectors such as the semiconductor industry and local entrepreneurship in shaping modern India. By engaging with these modules, students are encouraged to become active participants in India’s economic progress and understand the importance of promoting local products and services. (Representative image/File)
These NCERT modules draw parallels between the contemporary “Atmanirbhar Bharat” and “Vocal for Local” movements with the historic Swadeshi movement of 1905. They illustrate how leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Lala Lajpat Rai advocated for the boycott of British products and the promotion of Indian industries. This historical perspective teaches students that the concept of self-reliance has long been a cornerstone of India’s freedom struggle. (Representative image/Canva)
A significant portion of the modules is dedicated to the India Semiconductor Mission, explaining the importance of semiconductors for economic development and national security. It highlights technological self-reliance and India’s efforts to reduce dependence on imports in this sector. Additionally, the initiative encourages students to pursue careers in science and technology, addressing a critical need for the country. (Representational image/Getty)
The modules feature inspiring stories that embody the “Vocal for Local” spirit, such as Bodhi Sathava Coir Works, founded by a woman entrepreneur in Kerala, and employment opportunities created by a rural youth in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, through cow dung products. These narratives demonstrate how small-scale local initiatives can lead to substantial change and economic empowerment, fostering creativity and entrepreneurship by utilising local resources. (Representative image/File)
One educational module specifically emphasises the ‘One District One Product’ (ODOP) initiative. This initiative has identified over 1,200 unique products from more than 750 districts in India, promoting them both nationally and internationally. It helps each district showcase its unique identity and economic potential on a global stage, teaching students how to market local products worldwide. (Representative image/File)
