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The UGC has released a draft Learning Outcomes-based Curriculum Framework (LOCF) for nine undergraduate subjects, drawing strong criticism from faculty and students.
UGC releases draft LOCF curriculum integrating ancient Indian maths, astronomy, and culture for undergraduates.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released a draft undergraduate curriculum under the Learning Outcomes-based Curriculum Framework (LOCF), aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The proposed curriculum aims to integrate traditional Indian knowledge systems, including ancient mathematics, astronomy, and cultural heritage, into mainstream higher education.
In mathematics, the draft focuses on concepts like Kala Ganpana (traditional Indian timekeeping), Bharatiya Bijganit (Indian algebra), and the significance of Puranas. Students will also study techniques from Vedic mathematics, including the Paravartya Yojayet Sutra for polynomial division, and learn about the Indian calendar (Panchanga) and its role in determining auspicious times (Mahurtas) for rituals. The curriculum also explores ancient observatories, the prime meridian of Ujjain, and comparisons between traditional time units like Ghatis and Vighatis and modern systems such as IST and GMT.
“This curriculum is a transformative initiative in mathematics education. It has been developed through careful consultation, ensuring academic excellence and practical relevance,” said Sushil K Tomar, chair of the curriculum committee.
“It aims to produce graduates capable of contributing to research, innovation, and national development, particularly across interdisciplinary fields,” he added.
The curriculum also includes texts like Surya Siddhanta and Aryabhatiyam, explaining cosmic time cycles from Yugas and Kalpas to Brahma’s day (Brahma Varsa) and divine cycles like Vishnu Varsa and Shiva Varsa.
Under LOCF, courses are divided into Discipline Specific Core (DSC), Discipline Specific Electives (DSE), and Generic Electives (GEs) to ensure a mix of core and interdisciplinary learning. Other proposed courses include Kautilya’s Arthashastra in commerce, Bharatiya Struggle for Independence, and political ideas from the Upanishads, Ramayana, Mahabharata, and classical works like Kalidasa. Concepts like Ram Rajya are linked to corporate governance and ESG frameworks in commerce education.
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However, the draft has drawn criticism from student groups such as the SFI, who have expressed concerns over its content. The SFI has announced a series of protests, including symbolic burning of draft copies on campuses and at state and central universities on August 25–26, followed by marches to UGC offices and regional centres on August 27.
The UGC has opened the LOCF draft for public feedback, inviting comments and suggestions from students, faculty, and other stakeholders until September 20, 2025.
(With inputs from PTI)
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