Thiruvananthapuram:
Kerala Education Minister V Sivankutty has reaffirmed the state’s position on educational autonomy, asserting that the National Education Policy (NEP) empowers states to prepare and publish their own school textbooks. The statement comes amid ongoing discussions about curriculum development and the implementation of NEP across various Indian states.
Addressing a press conference on Monday, the minister stated that the NEP 2020 framework encourages states to create textbooks tailored to their educational needs and cultural contexts. He clarified that Kerala will continue to produce its own learning materials through the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), ensuring that the curriculum remains inclusive and reflective of regional heritage.
“The NEP gives states the right to prepare their own textbooks. Kerala will continue to uphold its long-standing education model that promotes secular, scientific, and inclusive values,” Sivankutty said.
Focus on Regional Identity and Flexibility
The minister explained that while NEP provides a common structure for educational reform, it does not restrict states from developing independent academic content. Kerala, known for its high literacy rate and progressive educational policies, has been proactive in integrating social and cultural dimensions into its school curriculum.
Sivankutty stressed that the state’s curriculum design would maintain a balance between national goals and local identity. “Education must connect students to their roots. Our textbooks should reflect Kerala’s culture, history, and linguistic diversity,” he noted.
He also added that the state government would ensure all textbooks meet pedagogical standards and align with modern educational practices, while still prioritizing accessibility and affordability for all students.
Response to Centralisation Concerns
The remarks come in the backdrop of concerns raised by several states regarding the centralisation of educational content under the NEP framework. Some education experts have argued that uniform national textbooks could undermine regional diversity.
In response, Sivankutty stated that the federal structure of education in India allows states to adapt NEP recommendations to their own context. “The NEP itself recognizes education as a concurrent subject. Therefore, the central and state governments must work collaboratively without compromising regional educational autonomy,” he said.
The minister further clarified that Kerala’s textbooks would continue to be published independently but in harmony with broader NEP objectives such as digital learning, skill development, and multilingual education.
Implementation and Future Plans
Kerala’s SCERT has already begun updating the state curriculum in line with NEP principles, focusing on critical thinking, environmental awareness, and technology integration. Teacher training modules are also being revised to ensure smooth adaptation to the new learning methodologies.
Sivankutty concluded by saying, “Kerala will implement the NEP in a way that protects our educational legacy while embracing progressive change. Our goal is to provide quality education rooted in equity, diversity, and social justice.”
