NCERT Adds 'Emergency' Chapter to Class 9 Textbook
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has updated its Class 9 Political Science textbook to include a chapter on the Emergency period in India.
Source: NDTV India NewsThe National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has introduced a new chapter titled 'Challenges to Democracy' in its Class 9 Political Science textbook. This chapter specifically addresses the period of Emergency in India, which lasted from 1975 to 1977. The textbook describes the Emergency as a significant challenge to India's democratic framework. It highlights key aspects of this period, including the suspension of fundamental rights, widespread censorship of the press, and mass arrests of political opponents and activists. The NCERT's inclusion aims to educate students about this critical phase in Indian history and its impact on democratic institutions and civil liberties. This update is part of NCERT's ongoing curriculum review and revision process.
This NCERT update is important for competitive exams, especially for UPSC and State PSCs, under the 'Indian Polity' and 'Modern Indian History' sections. Aspirants should understand the constitutional provisions related to Emergency, its historical context, and its impact on fundamental rights and democratic institutions. Questions often arise about the powers of the President, the role of the judiciary during an Emergency, and the 42nd and 44th Constitutional Amendments.
- NCERT has added a chapter on the Emergency to the Class 9 Political Science textbook.
- The chapter is titled 'Challenges to Democracy'.
- The Emergency in India was imposed from 1975 to 1977.
- Key features mentioned include suspension of fundamental rights and press censorship.
- Mass arrests of political opponents were a significant aspect of the Emergency period.
A period from June 25, 1975, to March 21, 1977, when Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared a state of Emergency across India. It allowed the central government to rule by decree, suspending elections and civil liberties. The official reason cited was 'internal disturbance'.
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) is an autonomous organization set up in 1961 by the Government of India. Its headquarters are in New Delhi. It advises the central and state governments on academic matters related to school education and publishes textbooks.
These are basic human rights enshrined in Part III (Articles 12-35) of the Constitution of India. They are enforceable by courts and include rights to equality, freedom, against exploitation, freedom of religion, cultural and educational rights, and the right to constitutional remedies.
UPSC and State PSC exams frequently ask about the constitutional provisions related to Emergency, the historical context of the 1975 Emergency, and the impact of the 42nd and 44th Constitutional Amendments.
Remember 'E-75' for Emergency 1975. It was a 'Challenge' to 'Democracy' (like the chapter title).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Emergency period in Indian history?
The Emergency period (1975-1977) is significant as it tested the resilience of India's democratic institutions. It led to widespread debates on civil liberties, the powers of the executive, and the role of the judiciary, ultimately strengthening democratic safeguards through subsequent constitutional amendments.
Which constitutional articles are related to the declaration of Emergency in India?
Articles 352, 356, and 360 of the Indian Constitution deal with different types of Emergency. Article 352 covers National Emergency, Article 356 deals with State Emergency (President's Rule), and Article 360 pertains to Financial Emergency.
What were the main reasons cited for imposing the Emergency in 1975?
The primary reason cited by the government for imposing the Emergency in 1975 was 'internal disturbance'. This was in the context of political unrest, protests led by Jayaprakash Narayan, and a High Court judgment against Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.