Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has welcomed the state government's move to make recitation of Bhagwad Gita shlokas a part of morning prayers in government schools, terming the action as one that will motivate and steer the younger generation.
Addressing the press on Wednesday, CM Dhami stressed on the deep influence of the Hindu holy book on young minds.
"Bhagwad Gita shlokas will instill the Vedic sense of duty and rightful action in children and will guide them on the right path. The scriptures will help develop good character and also educate them on the power and might of spirituality," he stated.
He also added, "It will make them as good citizens. Where they go, they will be good in that field."
The Chief Minister's statement follows a new government order making it compulsory for Gita verses to be read at school assemblies throughout the state. The move is intended to impart fundamental values and a sense of moral clarity to students.
One shloka will be introduced every week, as per the official order. In addition to its recitation, teachers will also clarify the inner significance and practical application of each verse—how these can cultivate leadership, values, decision-making skills, and a spirit of inquiry among children.
The officials have emphasized that the Gita must not be treated as mere academic material, but as a critical subject meant to resonate in students' daily behavior and thinking.
The state government asserts that this step is in line with the vision of National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which is a strong supporter of an educational system blending India's traditional wisdom with modern learning.
In yet another move to enhance cultural and spiritual education, the Uttarakhand government has written to the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) suggesting that Hindu epics such as the Bhagwad Gita and Ramayan be included in the school curriculum.
Though a definite time frame for making changes to the curriculum has not been established, the immediate attention is on including Gita shloka recitation in regular prayer meetings.
Uttarakhand, which is also known as Devbhoomi or the 'Land of the Gods', boasts more than 17,000 government schools that will be affected by this project.
