23 October 2026 | BW Education
Uttarakhand is preparing to introduce a formal religious education curriculum for minority students from Classes 1 to 12, combining religious teachings with Indian history, cultural heritage, the freedom struggle and nation-building. The syllabus is awaiting approval from the state education department.
The Uttarakhand State Minority Education Authority has completed the curriculum for Classes 1 to 8, while the draft for Classes 9 to 12 has also been prepared. The programme can be implemented only after the education department approves the proposal.
Professor Surjeet Singh Gandhi, chairperson of the Uttarakhand State Minority Education Authority, said the authority was waiting for the department’s decision.
“Once that is granted, Uttarakhand will become the first state in the country to have prepared a curriculum of this kind for religious education,” Gandhi said.
Religious education to remain optional
According to a source at the minorities commission, participation in the proposed programme will be optional. Schools may offer the classes before or after regular academic lessons, allowing students to decide whether to enrol.
Alongside religious teachings and beliefs, the syllabus will cover India’s cultural heritage, prominent freedom fighters and personalities who contributed to nation-building. The stated aim is to connect religious learning with broader themes of Indian history and identity.