The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has introduced a detailed six-page chapter on the Ghaznavid invasions and the demolition of the Somnath temple in its newly revised Class seven social science textbook, released under the framework of the National Education Policy Two Thousand Twenty. As per the updated academic structure, Class seven students will now study from two integrated social science textbooks, replacing the earlier system of three separate books for history, civics, and geography.
What the New Chapter Covers?
The new section, titled “The Ghaznavid Invasions,” provides an expanded account of Mahmud of Ghazni’s seventeen military campaigns into the Indian subcontinent. The chapter narrates the destruction of major temples in Mathura and Kannauj, along with the demolition of the Somnath temple in Gujarat. The textbook also informs students that the present Somnath temple was rebuilt in Nineteen Fifty and inaugurated the following year by then President Rajendra Prasad. A reflective question has been added asking why the reconstruction was funded entirely through public donations.
Description of Violence and Enslavement
The chapter states that Mahmud’s campaigns led to the slaughter of tens of thousands of Indian civilians and the enslavement of prisoners, including children, who were taken to slave markets in Central Asia. Citing historical accounts, the book describes Mahmud as a powerful yet “cruel and ruthless” commander, who targeted Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and even rival Islamic sects. References from court historian Al-Utbi and scholar Al-Biruni have been included to document the destruction of temples and the removal of the Shivalinga from Somnath.
Major Shift from Earlier NCERT Content
These details did not appear in the previous Class seven history textbook. The earlier edition contained only a brief paragraph stating that Mahmud attacked wealthy temples and carried away riches, with partial reference to religious motivations. The expanded narrative marks a significant shift in historical presentation, offering detailed political, social, and religious context compared to the earlier concise treatment.
Aligned with NEP Two Thousand Twenty
NCERT is currently rolling out revised textbooks aligned with the National Education Policy Two Thousand Twenty across various classes. The objective of the curriculum revamp is to promote integrated learning, factual depth, and contextual understanding of Indian history. Education experts note that the new structure brings greater historical detail and analytical questioning into middle school classrooms, especially in social science education.
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