NEW DELHI: From Isro missions to concept of atoms (‘parmanu’), the NCERT’s new Class 8 Science textbook called ‘Curiosity’ is trying to amalgamate traditional Indian knowledge with contemporary science in order to make students aware about India’s scientific legacy.In the chapter ‘Particulate Nature of Matter’, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) textbook talks about “Acharya Kanad, an ancient Indian philosopher, (who) first spoke about the idea of a Parmanu (atom)”. The book has also incorporated different missions of Isro like Chandrayaan 1, 2 and 3 to study the Moon, Aditya L1 to study the Sun and Mangalyaan to study Mars.In the chapter ‘Light: Mirrors and Lenses’, the textbook says over 800 years ago, during Bhaskara II’s time, Indian astronomers used shallow water bowls and angled tubes to observe and “measure the positions of stars and planets in the sky” via reflections, suggesting a practical understanding of reflection laws despite their absence in literature.“This integration of traditional knowledge with modern scientific education is intended to develop curiosity, environmental awareness, ethical values and critical thinking,” the foreword of the book said.Another chapter titled ‘Nature of Matter: Elements, Compounds and Mixtures’ mentions that ancient Indian texts have mentioned the use of alloys for medicinal purposes. The chapter also features an ‘Ever Heard Of?’ section spotlighting India’s recent contributions to global health. “Long before modern vaccines, India had a traditional method called variolation to protect against smallpox,” reads a section titled ‘Our Scientific Heritage’ in the chapter ‘Health: The Ultimate Treasure’.“Indian vaccine companies played a key role during the Covid-19 pandemic and continue to support the global health efforts,” it said, linking ancient practices to modern advancements.
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