General Overview
- New Textbook Introduced: NCERT launches “Khel Yatra”, a physical education and well-being textbook for Class 7.
- NEP 2020 Alignment: The move is in line with the National Education Policy 2020, which promotes cultural rootedness and holistic development.
- Focus: Emphasises traditional Indian games, fitness, teamwork, and values like inclusion and gender equality.
Relevance : GS 2(Education )
Traditional Games in Focus (Chapters 1 & 2)
Chapter 1: Foundational Basis of Physical Education and Well-being
- Ghorpadiche Shepoot (Maharashtra/South India): Tag-based game resembling lizard’s tail chase; connected with Tanaji Malusare’s legend.
- Gidhada Gudkavan (Maharashtra): “Hawk and Chickens” game promoting agility, teamwork, and strategy.
- Nalugu Rallu Ata (Andhra Pradesh & Telangana): “Four Stones” game requiring strategic movement to collect stones while avoiding the denner.
Chapter 2: Physical and Motor Fitness
- Dhaan ki Bori: Sack race game where one player carries another on the back.
- Atya-Patya / Dariya Bandha: Tag-and-run agility game involving crossing lines without being tagged.
- Dapo Nyarka Sunam (Northeast Tribes): Bamboo wrestling game focused on balance, strength, and strategy.
- Madhu and Manu: Tag-based team game involving race to safety zones.
Standard Sports & Cultural Practices (Chapters 3–6)
- Chapter 3 & 4: Fundamentals of badminton and football.
- Chapters 5 & 6: Focus on kabaddi and yoga (including asanas and pranayama).
Broader Educational Themes
- Values-Based Learning: Textbook promotes physical activity along with values like:
- Inclusion
- Gender equality
- Cultural rootedness
- Experiential Learning: Encourages students to engage actively rather than passively learn.
Vocational Skills Textbook: Kaushal Bodh
- Introduces students to:
- Puppetry
- Tie-dye printing
- Gardening
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Blends heritage crafts with emerging tech skills.
Significance
- Pedagogical Shift: Moves from rote learning to hands-on, experiential, and culturally integrated education.
- National Integration: Showcases diverse regional games and promotes inter-state cultural appreciation.
- Holistic Development: Strengthens physical fitness, emotional well-being, and creative thinking among adolescents.
