The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has updated the school syllabus for the 2025-26 academic year. It now includes stories of prominent Indian military figures, with special focus on Brigadier Mohammad Usman.
Brigadier Usman will be featured in Class VII Urdu textbooks. He is remembered for his bravery during the 1947-48 conflict in Jammu and Kashmir. He was posthumously awarded the Mahavir Chakra for his courage. His life reflects selfless service, dedication, and sacrifice for the nation.
The curriculum aims to teach students about his role in defending India’s borders. It will also highlight values like bravery, integrity, and commitment.
Along with Brigadier Usman, Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw will appear in Class VIII English textbooks. Major Somnath Sharma will be included in Class VIII Urdu textbooks. Manekshaw, India’s first Field Marshal, led the armed forces during the 1971 war. Major Sharma was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his valor in battle.
The Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Education, and NCERT have also added lessons on the National War Memorial. The aim is to deepen students’ respect for the armed forces.
A joint release stated that these lessons will not only teach military history but also life skills. Students will learn about resilience, empathy, emotional intelligence, and the spirit of nation-building.
NCERT hopes these stories will inspire young learners to honor the sacrifices of India’s defenders. It also wants them to carry forward their legacy of courage and dedication.
