The full details regarding the NCERT’s revised mathematics textbooks, which credit ancient India for foundational concepts in algebra and geometry, reflect a move to incorporate Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) and address what officials term a “skewed” Eurocentric historical view.

The revisions are part of the broader curriculum overhaul mandated by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and are prominently featured in the recently released Class 7 mathematics textbook, Ganita Prakash Part 2.

🔢 Key Contributions Credited to Ancient India

The new textbooks connect modern mathematical concepts directly to the work of ancient Indian scholars:

1. Algebra (Bijaganita)

• The Origins of Algebra: The textbook states that concepts related to algebraic equations were among the earliest known works in the field. It refers to the ancient Indian term “bijaganita” (seed mathematics) as being the precursor to modern algebra.
• Brahmagupta’s Work (7th Century CE): It highlights the mathematician Brahmagupta and his text, Brahmasphutasiddhanta. The book credits him as the first to articulate clear rules for the multiplication and division of positive and negative numbers (integers)—a critical step in the development of arithmetic and algebra.
• Use of Symbols: The text details how Indian mathematicians from Brahmagupta’s era used letters and symbols (yāvat tāvat for “as much as”) to represent unknowns and solve equations, which is a foundational concept of algebra.
• Global Spread: The book explicitly traces the diffusion of these ideas, noting that Indian mathematical ideas were translated into Arabic in the 8th century, influencing the renowned mathematician Al-Khwarizmi (whose book al-jabr gave us the word “algebra”).

2. Geometry

• The Sulba-Sutras: The chapter on “Constructions and Tilings” introduces the Sulba-Sutras (meaning “cord-rules”), which are ancient geometric texts.
• Practical Geometry: The book explains that these texts, which dealt with the construction of precise fire altars for Vedic rituals, contained exact procedures for geometric constructions, such as using ropes to create perpendiculars and perpendicular bisectors. This demonstrates an advanced understanding of geometric principles.

🇮🇳 Rationale for the Syllabus Change

According to NCERT Director Dinesh Prasad Saklani, the purpose of including these historical facts is threefold:

1. To Teach Correct History: To move beyond a “skewed” colonial and Eurocentric interpretation that has long dominated the history of mathematics taught in India.
2. To Foster Interdisciplinary Learning: To provide students with a richer context by connecting mathematical concepts to Indian history, culture, and science.
3. To Instil National Pride: To recognize India’s significant global contributions and inspire students.