India’s Military Legends March Into Classrooms: NCERT Introduces War Heroes in School Textbooks
- MGMMTeam
- Aug 8
- 4 min read
In a remarkable move to integrate national pride into education, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Education, has introduced new chapters in school textbooks featuring three of India’s most iconic war heroes. These additions are a conscious attempt to honor the memory of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, Brigadier Mohammad Usman, and Major Somnath Sharma. Their stories of valor, leadership, and selfless sacrifice have now become part of the school curriculum for the 2024–25 academic year.
This change is not merely symbolic; it represents a deeper educational transformation where history lessons are no longer confined to distant empires and colonial battles. Instead, Indian students will now engage with real stories of courage that helped shape modern India’s sovereignty and national identity.
Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw: The Strategist Behind Victory
Students studying in Class VIII Urdu textbooks will now read about the life and achievements of Field Marshal Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw—one of India’s most celebrated military leaders. A legend in uniform, Manekshaw played a pivotal role in India’s victory in the 1971 war that led to the creation of Bangladesh. He became the first Indian officer to be promoted to the rank of Field Marshal and was awarded the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan for his exceptional service.
Manekshaw’s military journey, beginning with his service in World War II, is marked by sharp strategic acumen and fearless leadership. His decisive planning during the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971 helped bring about a swift and decisive outcome. With the addition of his story to the curriculum, students will learn more than dates and battles—they will gain insight into the personality, resolve, and patriotism that defined Manekshaw’s legendary command.
Brigadier Mohammad Usman: The Lion of Nowshera
Brigadier Mohammad Usman’s life and legacy now feature in the Class VII Urdu curriculum. Often referred to as the "Lion of Nowshera," Usman was a senior officer who played a crucial role during the 1947–48 war over Jammu and Kashmir. Despite being a Muslim officer at the time of India’s partition, he firmly chose to stay loyal to the Indian Army, declining offers to join Pakistan. His commitment was not just professional, but deeply patriotic.
Usman led Indian forces in critical battles to defend Jhangar and Poonch. His leadership in the Battle of Nowshera turned the tide in India’s favor, though he tragically lost his life in July 1948. Posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, Brigadier Usman became the highest-ranking Indian Army officer killed in action in that war. Through his inclusion in school textbooks, students will understand that courage knows no religion or boundary—what matters is one’s loyalty to the nation.
Major Somnath Sharma: The First Param Vir Chakra Awardee
Major Somnath Sharma, the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, is now included in the Class VIII English textbook. His tale is one of immense grit, patriotism, and ultimate sacrifice. During the Battle of Badgam in October 1947, Major Sharma led his troops in defending the Srinagar airstrip from advancing Pakistani infiltrators. Despite having an injured arm, he refused to withdraw and fought with unmatched bravery until he was killed in action.
His final radio message—"The enemy is only 50 yards from us. We are heavily outnumbered. We are under devastating fire... I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to our last man and our last round"—has become an enduring part of India’s military folklore. Including Sharma’s story in English textbooks introduces students not just to his heroics, but to the unwavering spirit that defines a soldier’s duty to his country.
Educational Reform Through Valor
This initiative is part of a broader government effort to deepen patriotic sentiment among the youth by weaving stories of India’s armed forces into the educational experience. It aligns with the objective of making the National War Memorial, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019 near India Gate, a central theme of national consciousness. The memorial itself was envisioned as a space to honor soldiers who laid down their lives for the nation post-Independence.
By integrating stories of the heroes whose names are etched on that memorial, the government seeks to instill in children values of duty, courage, empathy, emotional resilience, and a deeper respect for national service. These are qualities not just for aspiring soldiers, but for every citizen.
Conclusion: Honoring Heroes, Inspiring Generations
The addition of these war heroes to NCERT textbooks is more than an academic update—it is a national statement. It is a recognition that history is not only made by kings, colonizers, or political leaders, but also by uniformed patriots who defend the nation’s integrity in times of war. By introducing the legacies of Manekshaw, Usman, and Somnath Sharma to schoolchildren, India is planting seeds of patriotism that go beyond symbolic flag-waving.
This move ensures that future generations not only remember these names but also draw lessons from them—about commitment, sacrifice, leadership, and above all, love for the motherland. In an era where global influences dominate education, this initiative is a reminder that national narratives must be rooted in real heroes who built, protected, and defined the country we call home.
(Sources: News18, OpIndia, Economic Times)
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