The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has revised the science curriculum to include chapters on Ayurveda in school textbooks. This initiative aligns with the Government of India’s decision to integrate Ayurvedic knowledge systems into mainstream education, promoting holistic health, wellness, and awareness among students in accordance with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Beginning in 2025, the science textbook Curiosity for Classes VI to VIII will include dedicated chapters introducing students to the fundamental principles of Ayurveda and ancient Indian scientific methods.

Objective of the Initiative

The integration aims to help the younger generation understand the significance of Ayurveda as a scientific system that emphasizes balance between the body, mind, and environment.

According to Dinesh Prasad Saklani, Director of NCERT, “Ayurvedic principles are being integrated into science textbooks for holistic learning. The school-level curriculum will serve as a readiness programme for university education, ensuring a smooth transition to higher courses.”

The initiative also supports age-appropriate learning, incorporating both horizontal and vertical mobility for students, and connecting them to related vocational courses in Classes X and XII.

Curriculum Highlights

  • The Curiosity textbooks for Classes VI to VIII will include chapters introducing Ayurveda’s scientific framework and lifestyle concepts.
  • Chapter 3 of the Class VIII Science textbook explains Ayurveda as a system that promotes wellness through practices such as:
    • Dinacharya (daily routine)
    • Ritucharya (seasonal routine)
    • Balanced diet, mindfulness, and regular exercise.
  • Class VI textbooks feature Ayurveda’s classification of matter based on 20 opposite properties (guna), derived from ancient texts such as the Asthanga Hridaya Sutra Sthana.

The approach focuses on holistic understanding of health, food, and nature, promoting sustainable and mindful living among students.

Beyond Science: Integration with Other Subjects

In addition to science, NCERT has introduced a new subject titled Physical Education and Well-being for Classes III to X, combining Ayurvedic principles with lessons on yoga, exercise, diet, and lifestyle routines.

To ensure inclusive implementation, NCERT has recommended experiential and outdoor learning approaches. Students will engage in practical activities like:

  • Creating herbal gardens
  • Participating in programmes such as PRAYAAS and Rashtriya Aavishkar Saptah (RAS)
  • Joining eco-club projects and learning webinars

Teacher training and capacity building are being prioritized to support effective curriculum delivery.

Government Support and NEP Alignment

The integration of Ayurveda in school education was announced by Ayush Minister Prataprao Jadhav, emphasizing that the reform supports the NEP 2020 vision of connecting youth with holistic health and traditional wisdom.

The government’s goal is to promote a scientifically informed understanding of Ayurveda, bridging traditional knowledge with modern education frameworks to foster wellness-oriented learning in schools and colleges.

Key Takeaways

  • NCERT introduces Ayurveda-based chapters in science textbooks for Classes VI–VIII from 2025.
  • Promotes holistic education aligned with NEP 2020 and traditional Indian knowledge systems.
  • Encourages students to learn about balance, mindfulness, and sustainable living.
  • Introduces Physical Education and Well-being as a new interdisciplinary subject.
  • Focus on experiential learning, including herbal gardens, eco-projects, and wellness activities.