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NCERT Forms New Team for Political Science Textbooks for Classes 11 and 12

The NCERT has formed a 20-member committee to develop new Political Science textbooks for Classes 11 and 12, ensuring alignment with NEP 2020 and NCF-SE 2023. Led by Prof. Sandeep Shastri, the team includes members with alleged ties to the RSS and ABVP. The textbooks aim to incorporate the Indian Knowledge System and will undergo a thorough review process before publication. The Class 11 textbook is expected to be completed by November 2026, followed by the Class 12 version in July 2027. This initiative reflects a significant shift in educational content and methodology.
By Ambika Singh Aug 20, 2026, 12:16 IST

Introduction to the New Initiative



The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has established a 20-member committee tasked with creating new Political Science textbooks for students in Classes 11 and 12. This initiative aims to align the syllabus and textbooks with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023.


Leadership and Coordination

Prof. Sandeep Shastri, who serves as the Vice-Chancellor of Nitte Deemed University in Bengaluru, will lead this new team. Dr. Vanthangpui Khobung and Dr. Subhash Singh have been appointed as member-coordinators, responsible for facilitating communication within the group and managing NCERT meetings and publishing protocols.


Concerns Over Team Composition

Allegations of Political Affiliations


The newly formed team includes at least four members reportedly linked to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and its student organization, the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). Notable members include Yadunath Deshpande, a senior advisor with the Ministry of Education, and Dr. Prashant Divekar, who leads the Teacher Education Centre at Jnana Prabodhini, an institution founded by an RSS pracharak. Additionally, JNU Professor Vandana Mishra, a former ABVP National Secretary, and Dr. Ravi Ramesh Chandra Shukla, an associate professor at JNU with RSS ties, are also part of the team.


Timeline for Textbook Development

Phased Approach to Textbook Release


NCERT has outlined a timeline for the development of these textbooks, aiming to complete the Class 11 Political Science book by November 30, 2026, followed by the Class 12 version by July 30, 2027. The textbooks will reflect the curriculum changes introduced by NEP 2020 and NCF-SE 2023, with contributions from experts across various academic fields.


Incorporating Indian Knowledge Systems

The new Political Science textbooks will emphasize the Indian Knowledge System and cultural connectivity as central themes. Other important aspects include equity, inclusion, age-appropriate teaching methods, value education, environmental education, and the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT). The team will collaborate with NCERT groups focused on these themes to ensure comprehensive coverage in each chapter.


Review Process for Quality Assurance

Multi-Stage Review Mechanism


The publication of the new textbooks will follow a rigorous review process. All team members will be involved in writing, reviewing content, and editing language, ensuring interdisciplinary connections are made. Before drafting, members will review relevant literature, and drafted chapters will be shared for collective feedback. A core group will periodically assess these chapters, and an NCERT review committee will conduct a final evaluation before publication. If necessary, NCERT may also consult external experts for specific chapters.


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