NCERT Clarifies Controversy Over Class 6 Kannada Textbook ‘Krishna’
Brief By Newsbrief / 4:39 PM on 25 Jun 2026
A controversy has emerged over the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) Class 6 Kannada textbook titled Krishna. An education rights organization, People’s Alliance for Fundamental Rights to Education (PAFRE), has raised objections to the book's content, alleging that it promotes religious references and vegetarianism among students. The organization claimed that certain chapters give undue importance to religious themes and that the section on food habits appears to favor a particular viewpoint. The allegations have sparked debate in educational circles, with critics questioning whether the content aligns with the principles of a secular and balanced curriculum.
Responding to the criticism, NCERT rejected the allegations and clarified the rationale behind the textbook's title and content. The council stated that all its language textbooks have been named after major rivers of India. According to NCERT, Krishna is named after the Krishna River, one of the most significant rivers in Karnataka, and has no religious or mythological connection. The organization emphasized that the naming convention was adopted to reflect India's geographical and cultural diversity. NCERT further stated that the objective of the textbook is to strengthen language learning and help students connect with their regional heritage rather than promote any religious ideology.
NCERT also addressed concerns regarding the chapter on food habits. The council explained that Chapter 6 focuses on the concept of a balanced diet and nutritional awareness. According to NCERT, an illustration on page 63 includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food items as part of a healthy and balanced diet. The council stressed that the textbook neither promotes vegetarianism nor discourages non-vegetarian food. Instead, it aims to educate students about proper nutrition and healthy eating habits. NCERT reiterated that all textbook content is developed from an academic perspective and is designed to support educational objectives without encouraging any religious or ideological bias.