Sengol: A Cultural Symbol of Governance in NCERT's New Class 9 Textbook

Introduction of Sengol in NCERT Textbook

The recently published Class 9 Social Science textbook by NCERT highlights the 'Sengol' as a significant cultural emblem linked to governance. This textbook traces the Sengol's historical roots back to the Chola dynasty.

Details of the New Textbook

The new Class 9 Social Science textbook encompasses various historical epochs. Within this volume, the Sengol is presented as a cultural symbol associated with governance and effective administration, originating from the Chola dynasty. It is discussed in a chapter focused on governance systems and public policies. The book is titled *Understanding Society—India and Beyond: Social Science Textbook for Grade 9 (Part 2)*, released about six months into the academic year, following the earlier release of Part 1 in June.

Sengol's Installation in the New Parliament

The textbook mentions that the Sengol was installed in the new Parliament building in 2023. Prime Minister Narendra Modi placed it in a glass case near the Lok Sabha Speaker's chair during the inauguration on May 28, 2023. The NCERT textbook emphasizes the Sengol as a representation of governance and effective administration, noting that its tradition as a symbol of righteous governance (aligned with *Dharma*) dates back over a millennium to the Chola period.

Historical Significance Linked to Independence

A chapter in the textbook connects the Sengol to the transfer of power during India's independence in 1947. It recounts that at midnight on August 15, 1947, marking India's independence, the Sengol was presented to then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru by seers from the *Aadheenam* tradition of Tamil Nadu. During the new Parliament's inauguration, Prime Minister Modi reiterated the Sengol's significance as a symbol of the 1947 transfer of power, guided by Rajaji and the *Aadheenam* tradition. However, the Congress party has questioned this assertion, claiming there is no documentary proof that the Sengol was designated as a symbol of the transition from British rule.

Cultural and Governance Symbolism

The Ministry of Culture describes the Sengol as a royal sceptre deeply rooted in the spiritual and cultural heritage of ancient Tamil civilization, traditionally used in the coronation rituals of Tamil kings. It is portrayed not just as a ceremonial item but as a representation of the moral duties of governance. The Ministry states that the traditions surrounding the Sengol were revived during India's independence in 1947, with a Sengol crafted by Vummidi Bangaru Chetty and consecrated by seers from the Thiruvavaduthurai *Aadheenam*.

Principles of Good Governance Explained

The chapter on governance in the Class 9 Social Science textbook also discusses *Satyameva Jayate* and the Supreme Court's motto, *Yato Dharma Stato Jayaḥ* (Where there is righteousness, there is victory). The new textbook elaborates on these symbols in relation to the values inherent in governance systems. It outlines the principles of good governance using the metaphor of a banyan tree, which includes participation, rule of law, accountability, effectiveness, inclusivity, responsibility, and transparency.