After Gujarat, Karnataka mulls introducing Bhagavad Gita in school syllabus

Bengaluru: Close on the heels of Gujarat government, Karnataka government is mulling to include Bhagavad Gita in school syllabus.

"Several people are demanding the introduction of moral science in Karnataka school syllabus. In Gujarat, the government planned to introduce moral science in two phases. In the first phase, they have introduced Bhagavad Gita. Going forward, I will discuss with the Karnataka chief minister in this regard. If we decide on introducing moral science in Karnataka, then we will set up an experts committee to decide on whether to include Bhagavad Gita, and some time-tested morals in Quran or Bible, in school syllabus," Karnataka Education Minister BC Nagesh told reporters here on Friday.

Government's aim to introduce moral science is to improve the morale of the students, he said.

However, Bhagavad Gita will not be introduced in the school syllabus from this academic year, he clarified.

"It will not be included from this academic year, but in coming years we will place this issue before an experts committee to decide on introducing moral science in school syllabus," he said.

From time immemorial Bhagavad Gita has been read and studied by many people around the world, Nagesh said and added that the divine text is not limited to one religion, but is an universal philosophical treatise studied in all parts of the world.

"Many times, SM Krishna, when he was the chief minister and in the Congress party, used to tell me that he drew strength from the Bhagavad Gita. He reads Bhagavad Gita every night. Not only Krishna, but many global leaders have spoken about the philosophical treatise," Nagesh said.

Backing the government's move, former chief minister and senior BJP Leader Jagadish Shettar said, "By adapting Bhagavad Gita's principles in our life, it will bring good reforms in personality. Gita is essential for life."

Meanwhile, the Gujarat government decided to include Bhagavad Gita in school syllabus for Classes 6-12, to cultivate a sense of pride and connection to traditions.

The Gita will be introduced in the form of stories and recitation in textbooks. For Classes 9-12, students will be offered a deeper introduction to the Gita.

Both Congress and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have welcomed the decision to include Bhagavad Gita in Gujarat school syllabus. (UNI)