The inclusion of a poem on the National War Memorial and a chapter on the 1965 Indo-Pak war martyr Abdul Hameed in the NCERT’s Class 6 curriculum is a commendable step by the Government. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministries of Defence and Education, carries profound significance, as it aims to inspire a generation of young minds by nurturing values of patriotism, courage, and devotion to duty. Children are the future custodians of a nation’s legacy, and what they learn in their formative years often leaves a lasting impact. By embedding stories of selfless sacrifice and patriotism into their education, the Government is not only promoting national pride but also ensuring that the contributions of India’s unsung heroes are neither forgotten nor relegated to the pages of history books.
The poem on the National War Memorial, which was established in 2019, serves to honour the sacrifices made by soldiers who laid down their lives in defence of the nation. It is not merely a monument of brick and stone; it is a living tribute that instils a sense of national duty and belonging in every citizen who visits it. The decision to make young students aware of its symbolic importance will ensure that future generations grow up with a deep appreciation for the sacrifices that underpin the country’s freedom and sovereignty. Of equal significance is the chapter on Veer Abdul Hameed, a martyr who exemplified extraordinary bravery during the 1965 Indo-Pak war. Posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, Hameed’s heroism on the battlefield is an inspiring narrative that highlights the grit and valour of India’s armed forces. His story, now part of the school curriculum, will educate young students on real-life examples of heroism, which cannot be relegated to mere historical facts but must be lived as part of the national consciousness. It is heartening to see that the Government is taking active measures to integrate these values into the curriculum, positioning the education system as a vehicle for nation-building.