The Uttarakhand government has taken a significant decision to integrate ethics and Indian culture into education in the state's schools. Now, the recitation of verses from the Bhagavad Gita will be mandatory during prayer assemblies in all government and private schools in the state. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, while announcing this decision, clarified that its aim is not to promote any religion but to promote moral education.
CM Dhami said that the knowledge of the Gita is not only spiritual but also related to life values, self-discipline, and social responsibilities. He said, "The verses of the Gita contain teachings that give the right direction to life. This lesson will make students better human beings, responsible citizens, and morally b."
Rule will apply to all schools
This decision taken by the government will be implemented in all government and private schools in the state. The education department will soon issue detailed guidelines in this regard, so that schools do not face any difficulty in following it.
In a statement issued by the Chief Minister's Office, it has been clarified that this decision has not been taken with the aim of promoting any one religion. Rather, this step is an effort to pass on Indian culture, philosophy, and life values to the next generation.
However, mixed reactions have emerged in the society regarding this decision. While many people are considering it a positive change that connects education with Indian culture, on the other hand, some people are criticizing it as religious interference. But the government has reiterated that this decision has been taken keeping in mind the respect for all religions, only for the dissemination of moral education and cultural values.
Uttarakhand becomes the first state to implement UCC
This decision comes at a time when the Uttarakhand government has also taken a historic step towards implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in the country. Uttarakhand has become the first state in independent India to prepare UCC guidelines for itself and formally implement them from January 27, 2025. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also launched the official portal of UCC on the same day.
Although the Portuguese Civil Code is already in force in Goa, Uttarakhand is the first state to implement a new UCC law under the Indian Constitution. It is being seen as a major step towards establishing a uniform law and order system in the country.
What are the main provisions of Uttarakhand UCC
Uttarakhand's new UCC system will now bring matters like marriage, divorce, adoption, inheritance, and live-in relationships under a uniform law. Under this law, polygamy and unilateral divorce have been banned. Also, sons and daughters have been given equal rights in property.
The state government believes that this historic law will end discrimination based on gender, caste, and religion in the society and lay the foundation for a uniform and harmonious society. Through decisions like Gita recitation and UCC, the Uttarakhand government is moving forward in the direction of connecting education and social structure with new values and modern thinking.
