Why Scrapping the Deshbhakti Curriculum by BJP Is a Blow to Patriotic Education in Delhi

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Research by Aero Nutist| May11,2025

In 2021, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) introduced the groundbreaking Deshbhakti Curriculum in Delhi government schools, a visionary program aimed at fostering patriotism and civic responsibility among students. However, in a controversial move in 2025, the BJP-led Delhi government under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta scrapped this initiative, labeling it a "waste of time." This decision has sparked widespread criticism, as the curriculum was seen as a vital tool to instill values of unity, respect, and responsibility in young minds. In this blog, we explore the impact of the Deshbhakti Curriculum on Delhi students, why its discontinuation is a setback for India, and why its revival is more crucial than ever.

The Vision Behind AAP's Deshbhakti Curriculum

The Deshbhakti Curriculum was launched on September 28, 2021, coinciding with Bhagat Singh's birth anniversary, symbolizing its deep connection to India's freedom struggle. Spearheaded by then-Education Minister Manish Sisodia, the program was designed to redefine patriotism for young students. Unlike traditional notions of patriotism tied to border conflicts, this curriculum focused on everyday actions that contribute to nation-building. Students were taught that patriotism includes small but meaningful acts like not littering streets, following traffic rules, and showing respect to others regardless of their background. As detailed in The Hindu's coverage of the launch, the curriculum was inspired by global models from countries like Japan, Singapore, and Australia.

The curriculum was activity-based, involving discussions, reflections, and practical exercises rather than rote learning or exams. It reached over 18 lakh students across Delhi and trained 2,000 teachers to implement it effectively, according to SCERT Delhi's official documentation. From nursery to Class 12, daily "Deshbhakti classes" encouraged students to think about how they could contribute to their country through actions like avoiding traffic jams, not staring at others inappropriately, and eliminating social evils like corruption.

Impact of the Deshbhakti Curriculum on Delhi Students

The Deshbhakti Curriculum was not just about chanting slogans or waving flags; it was about embedding constitutional values and civic responsibility into the daily lives of students. It taught children to respect diversity—whether in language, religion, or culture—and to practice gender equality at home by ensuring their sisters were treated fairly. Teachers reported that the program encouraged students to ask profound questions about their role in nation-building, as highlighted in Hindustan Times' coverage of teacher feedback. For instance, students began associating patriotism with saving water, donating blood, or standing against discrimination—values that align with India's constitutional ethos.

Students participating in a Deshbhakti Curriculum session, learning the values of patriotism through everyday actions.

At a time when social tensions are high and divisive narratives dominate public discourse, the Deshbhakti Curriculum provided a platform for meaningful dialogue in schools. It empowered students to counter hate and division by promoting unity and mutual respect, making it a vital tool for shaping responsible citizens.

Why Did BJP Scrap the Deshbhakti Curriculum?

In 2025, the BJP-led Delhi government discontinued the Deshbhakti Curriculum, removing it from school timetables and dismissing it as a "waste of time." This decision, as criticized in a recent X post by Shailendra Sharma, reflects a narrow political lens rather than a focus on national interest. By scrapping the program, the BJP has deprived students of a unique opportunity to learn values that are crucial for India's future. In an era where children are exposed to divisive rhetoric about "who is a patriot and who is a traitor," schools should be a safe space for fostering unity and critical thinking—not a battleground for political agendas.

The decision to label the curriculum a "waste of time" undermines the importance of value-based education. Patriotism, as the curriculum taught, is not just about grand gestures but about small, everyday actions that strengthen society. By discontinuing the program, the BJP has sent a message that such values are not a priority, leaving a void in the education system at a time when they are needed the most.

Why India Needs the Deshbhakti Curriculum Now More Than Ever

India today faces numerous challenges—social inequality, communal tensions, and a lack of civic awareness. The Deshbhakti Curriculum addressed these issues by teaching students to be responsible citizens who contribute to society through their actions. Whether it's ensuring traffic rules are followed to avoid chaos, not littering to keep streets clean, or rejecting discriminatory behavior, these small acts collectively build a stronger nation. The curriculum's emphasis on unity and mutual respect is particularly relevant in a diverse country like India, where fostering harmony is essential for progress.

Moreover, the program's discontinuation comes at a time when young minds need guidance to navigate complex social issues. Without such initiatives, schools risk becoming mere academic factories, neglecting their role in shaping ethical and patriotic citizens. The Deshbhakti Curriculum was a step toward holistic education—something India cannot afford to lose.

FAQs About the Deshbhakti Curriculum

What was the Deshbhakti Curriculum? The Deshbhakti Curriculum was an AAP initiative launched in 2021 to teach students in Delhi government schools about patriotism through everyday actions like following traffic rules and respecting diversity.

Why did BJP scrap the Deshbhakti Curriculum? In 2025, the BJP-led Delhi government discontinued the curriculum, calling it a "waste of time," as per an X post by Shailendra Sharma.

Why is the Deshbhakti Curriculum important for India? The curriculum instilled civic values, promoted unity, and taught students to contribute to nation-building through small, everyday actions, which is crucial for India's social harmony.

Conclusion: Reviving the Deshbhakti Curriculum for a Better Future

The Deshbhakti Curriculum was a pioneering effort by AAP to redefine patriotism and civic responsibility in Delhi's schools. Its discontinuation by the BJP is a shortsighted move that prioritizes political motives over the needs of students and the nation. India needs more programs like this to instill values of unity, respect, and responsibility in the next generation. It's time for policymakers to look beyond political differences and revive the Deshbhakti Curriculum, ensuring that patriotism becomes a way of life for every child.

What do you think about the scrapping of the Deshbhakti Curriculum? Do you believe value-based education should be a priority in schools? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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