NCERT adds chapters on Sam Manekshaw, Brig Usman and Major Somnath Sharma in new textbooks

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has added chapters on the lives and sacrifices of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, Brigadier Mohammad Usman, and Major Somnath Sharma in the recently published books for Class VIII (Urdu), Class VII (Urdu), and Class VIII (English), respectively.

A statement from the Ministry of Defence stated that the newly introduced chapters aim to provide students with inspirational narratives of courage and duty. It is pertinent to mention here that Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, India’s first officer to be conferred the rank of Field Marshal, is remembered for his exceptional leadership and strategic acumen. Brigadier Mohammad Usman and Major Somnath Sharma, both recipients of the Mahavir Chakra and Param Vir Chakra, respectively (posthumously), laid down their lives in service of the nation and remain symbols of supreme sacrifice.

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The move follows a partnership between the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Education, and NCERT to integrate the National War Memorial and related references into the school curriculum.

Through these stories and their inclusion in the curriculum, students will not only gain insights into India’s military history but also absorb important life lessons on resilience, empathy, emotional intelligence, and the importance of contributing to nation-building, the statement added.