Ancient Indian knowledge systems may soon be incorporated into undergraduate mathematics courses through a new draft curriculum from the University Grants Commission (UGC), according to a report by PTI. The UGC has proposed that the ancient knowledge systems like Kala Ganpana (traditional ways of measuring time), Bharatiya Bijganit (Indian-Algebra), and indomitable topics such as the Puranas, Surya Siddhanta, Aryabhatiyam, will be part of the undergraduate mathematics course in the next curriculum and is outlined in draft for the syllabus based on Learning Outcomes-based Curriculum Framework (LOCF), pertaining to the policy of National Education Policy 2020.
The UGC proposes that students will learn the history and development of Indian algebra and methods such as Paravartya Yojayet Sutra, which is a Vedic Mathematics technique, roughly translated to mean; “to transpose and apply.” The curriculum draws on astronomy, mythology and mathematics, with topics such as the ancient observatories, the prime meridian of Ujjain, the difference between Ghatis, Vighatis (lengths of Indian time, similar to minutes) with Greenwich Mean Time as well as Indian Time Standard Time. The curriculum will also cover panchanga (Indian calendar) and mahurtas (favourable/auspicious times for rituals/festivals).
“We are confident that this curriculum will be a transformative initiative in the realm of mathematics education in India. It has been meticulously developed through extensive consultation and collaboration, ensuring both academic excellence and practical relevance,” said curriculum committee chair Sushil K Tomar.
He further noted, “It aspires to produce professionally competent graduates, capable of contributing meaningfully to research, innovation, and national development.”
The draft also explores cosmic time structures, from Yugas and Kalpas to “Brahma’s day (Brahma Varsa),” along with cycles like “Vishnu Varsa” and “Shiva Varsa.”
At the same time, there will be some Discipline Specific Core course(s), Discipline Specific Elective course(s), and Generic Elective course(s) under LOCF guidelines for every subject. In the case of duly considering the subject of Political Science, UGC has suggested that a total of 20 core courses including the core course titled “Tradition of Political Thinking in Bharat”, which takes content from Vedic traditions, Jain/Buddhist literature, the epics namely the Ramayana and Mahabharata, works of thinkers such as Bhasa, Kalidasa and Kalhana.
Also Read: SBI PO Prelims Exam 2025: Result Expected Soon – Here’s How To Download Your Scorecard
