Concern mounts over growing menace of 'saffronisation' of textbooks

September 15, 2012

Mangalore, September 15: Pledging to continue its struggle against 'saffronisation' of education by the BJP-led Karnataka state government, the 'Committee to Fight against Saffronisation of Textbooks', a newly formed body of experts, has pointed out that the National Curriculum Framework (NCF 2005) had been violated while preparing textbooks of class V and VIII for the current academic year.

Addressing media persons at a press conference here on Friday, president of the Committee Suresh Bhat Bakrabail, said that after the 'saffronisation' of social, cultural and administrative sectors the BJP government has been continuing its undemocratic drive through the saffronisation of education sector.

As per the NCF 2005 guidelines, published by NCERT, the textbooks should strive to strengthen democracy, and the pluralism which was the main feature of Indian culture. However the new textbooks attack the values of democracy and pluralism due to the apparent 'saffronisation' drive by the ruling saffron party of the state, said Mr Bakrabail.

He also said that apart from the saffronisation of text books of Class V and VIII, the Committee also has received information that the 'saffronised' textbooks of Class VI, VII, IX and X for the next academic year, have already been finalised and would go for printing soon.

“Such a development will affect the tender minds of school-going children, which will have far-reaching consequences,” he said.

It is the need of the hour to question such a communal move that could result in formation of a communal and intolerant society, he said.

Citing example of a Class VIII Hindi textbook in Bangalore division, he said that the text in the original song 'Punyakoti' had been twisted at the end. In the new version of the song the tiger takes an oath to refrain from beef eating.

Walter Maben, a member of the Committee said that a state-level seminar would be organised on Sunday as part of their programmes to create awareness among people about the saffronisation of the textbooks.

Comments

Add new comment

Coastaldigest.com reserves the right to delete or block any comments.
Coastaldigset.com is not responsible for its readers’ comments.
Comments that are abusive, incendiary or irrelevant are strictly prohibited.
Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name to avoid reject.

Heightened surveillance for monkey fever in Dakshina Kannada amidst Nipah concerns

News Network

September 19,2024

Mangaluru, Sep 19: Following the recent Nipah virus-related fatalities in Kerala, health authorities in Dakshina Kannada are taking proactive measures to monitor for potential cases of monkey fever. While typically found in African countries, monkey fever has raised concerns within the district, prompting increased vigilance.

To ensure early detection, travelers arriving at Mangaluru’s international airport and local ports will undergo health screenings. Additionally, a dedicated ambulance has been placed on standby for any emergent cases, and Wenlock Hospital has set aside a special ward with six reserved beds specifically for monkey fever patients.

"We currently have no confirmed cases of monkey fever in Dakshina Kannada, and there are no direct orders from the state government," said Dr. Timmaiah, the District Health Officer. "However, we are taking preventive measures, including continuous screening of incoming passengers. A special meeting is also being planned to discuss future action steps."

Dr. Timmaiah further highlighted the rise in general viral infections following the region's recent shift in weather patterns. "With the decline in rainfall, we are seeing an uptick in viral cases, particularly fevers accompanied by cough, cold, and throat pain, especially in children. Though Mangaluru has experienced mostly sunny weather, occasional rain at night has contributed to the spread of illnesses. It’s crucial for the public to remain vigilant and take preventive measures."

Health officials are urging residents to seek timely medical advice and follow recommended precautions to mitigate the spread of infectious diseases.

Comments

Add new comment

Coastaldigest.com reserves the right to delete or block any comments.
Coastaldigset.com is not responsible for its readers’ comments.
Comments that are abusive, incendiary or irrelevant are strictly prohibited.
Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name to avoid reject.

Mandya: Over 50 arrested, holiday for schools after Ganesha procession turns violent near dargah

News Network

September 12,2024

Mysuru: More than 50 people have been arrested in connection with the riots between two groups of different faiths, at Nagamangala town, Mandya district, over the Ganesha idol procession, on Wednesday night.

High drama prevailed in front of the Nagamangala town police station on Thursday morning, with women belonging to both Hindu and Muslim communities staging a protest against the arrest of their family members and demanding their release.

The two groups started arguing over the Ganesha idol procession on the Mysuru-Nagamangala road, near a 'dargah'. This soon turned violent with stone being pelted. Reports said that around 25 shops were also set on fire.

Several vehicles were damaged and torched by the mob. However, police intervened and brought the situation under control, deploying additional police forces.

Holiday has been declared to schools and colleges in Nagamangala town until further notice. Police have imposed section 144 till 12 noon of September 14.

SP Mallikarjuna Baladandi, IGP (Southern Range) Boralingaiah, DC Kumar and other officials visited the spot.

District incharge Minister N Chaluvarayaswamy visited the spot on Thursday morning and took stock of the situation. Speaking to reporters he said, the incident was unfortunate.

"The clash which started around 9 pm on Wednesday, flared up with miscreants setting fire, damaging shops and vehicles in the town. There is no need for anxiety. Additional police forces have been deployed in the town and the situation is under control now," he said.

Comments