NCERT's new syllabus: Preamble missing from Class 9 textbook, 'Emergency' included..

NCERT Class 9 Book Changes 2026: Changes made to NCERT books and the syllabus are making headlines. Significant modifications have been introduced in the Class 9 Political Science textbook, *Democratic Politics-I*. This revised edition, released for the new academic session, now includes a section on the '1975 Emergency'—arguably the most discussed and controversial period in the country's history. Consequently, Class 9 students will now learn about the history of the Emergency and its political impact.

According to a *Hindustan Times* report, while a new topic regarding the Emergency has been added, it has also come to light that certain references to the Constitution's Preamble and 'secularism' have been removed from parts of the book. These changes have sparked a fresh debate across social media and political circles, with educationists and experts expressing divergent views on NCERT's move.

Why was the topic of the 1975 Emergency added?
NCERT has introduced a new section titled 'Suspension of Rights during the Emergency' within the 'Democratic Rights' chapter of the Class 9 textbook. It details how, on June 25, 1975, the President declared a state of emergency in the country upon the recommendation of the then Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi. During this period, citizens' fundamental rights were suspended, press censorship was imposed, and numerous opposition leaders were imprisoned. The Board believes that students should possess accurate information regarding this pivotal event in Indian democracy.

What changes were made regarding the Preamble and secularism?

The aspect of these changes garnering the most attention is the removal of the Constitution's Preamble from certain sections of the book. According to reports, the 'Preamble'—which includes terms like 'Socialist' and 'Secular'—was previously prominently featured alongside the book's opening pages and initial chapters. In the new version, this specific reference has been downplayed or entirely removed in some places; additionally, paragraphs defining secularism and explaining its significance have been trimmed.

What is the rationale behind this move by NCERT?

Regarding these syllabus changes, NCERT has consistently maintained that the move aims to "reduce the burden of the textbook" and aligns with the guidelines of the National Education Policy (NEP 2020). Officials state that redundant and repetitive content has been removed to modernize the curriculum, enabling students to better grasp key historical events. They believe that studying events like the Emergency will deepen students' understanding of democracy.

What impact will this have on students and learning?
Teachers and experts observe that such syllabus changes alter the nature of classroom discussions. Teaching Class 9 students about the Emergency is beneficial, as it provides them with historical insight; however, care must be taken to ensure they are not presented with a one-sided narrative. Meanwhile, the reduction of essential elements—such as the Preamble and the concept of secularism—from the textbook has raised concerns among many. The debate surrounding this new syllabus is expected to intensify in the coming days.

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