The Uttarakhand government has made the recitation of Shrimad Bhagavad Geeta shlokas mandatory in schools across the state. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced the decision on Sunday, stating that the move aims to connect students with Indian culture, moral values and life philosophy for their holistic development.
The Chief Minister shared the information through a post on social media platform X, reiterating that students should be introduced to ethical values, disciplined conduct and balanced thinking through the teachings of the Geeta. He said the initiative is intended to strengthen character building among students while promoting cultural awareness.
Earlier, on the Chief Minister’s directions, the education department had issued instructions to teachers to regularly explain Geeta shlokas in classrooms. Teachers were also asked to inform students how the principles of the Shrimad Bhagavad Geeta help develop values, behaviour, leadership qualities, decision-making ability, emotional balance and scientific thinking. The department clarified that Geeta’s teachings are based on philosophy, psychology, logic, behavioural science and ethics, making them relevant from a secular and universal perspective.
In another post, the Chief Minister referred to the historical Katarmal Sun Temple in Almora district, describing it as a symbol of Uttarakhand’s rich cultural heritage and architectural excellence from the Katyuri era. He said such heritage reflects the state’s glorious past and living cultural traditions.
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Along with this, the state government has also included the Shrimad Bhagavad Geeta and Ramayana in the state curriculum framework. According to Secondary Education Director Dr Mukul Kumar Sati, new textbooks will be implemented from the next academic session as per the recommendations of the state curriculum framework. He said the Geeta is not only a religious text but also a comprehensive guide to human behaviour, psychology, stress management and ethical living, which can help students become responsible citizens.
