The Uttarakhand government, in an order dated July 14, directed all government schools in the state to include the recitation of Shrimad Bhagavad Gita shlokas during morning assemblies.
The move aims to blend traditional Indian knowledge with modern education and promote values such as self-discipline, leadership and emotional balance among students.
An official order by the Director of Secondary Education Dr. Mukul Kumar Sati instructs schools to not only recite one Gita shloka daily but also explain its meaning and scientific relevance to students.
Teachers have been asked to select a “Shloka of the Week,” display it with its meaning on the school notice board, and encourage students to learn and reflect on it. At the end of the week, discussions and student feedback will be part of classroom activities.
The initiative is in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which encourages the integration of India’s traditional knowledge systems into the modern education framework.
The order states that Gita teachings should be approached from a secular perspective and seen through the lens of psychology, logic, behavioral science, and moral philosophy.
The Education Department said that the teachings must not remain limited to textbooks but should influence students’ behavior and attitudes. The order mentions that the goal is to shape students into responsible citizens with strong character and balanced personalities.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami welcomed the initiative and said, “The Bhagavad Gita is a timeless source of knowledge. This is Devbhoomi, and it is important for our children to understand and draw inspiration from it.”
Former CM Harish Rawat supported the move but urged the government to ensure inclusivity. “Gita teaches the path of Karma Yoga. All religions offer valuable teachings, and the curriculum should reflect that without pushing a particular ideology,” he said.
Congress leader Suryakant Dhasmana expressed concern, suggesting the ruling government may be using the Gita as a tool for political optics rather than educational reform. “The focus should be on holistic learning, not controversy,” he said.
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