NCERT Maratha Empire Map

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed before the Bombay High Court challenging the decision of the National Council of Educational Research and Training to remove a map of the Maratha Empire from the Class 8 Social Science textbook. The petition was filed by descendants of prominent Maratha royal families along with several citizens, who alleged that the removal was unilateral, non-transparent, and historically inaccurate.

Background of the Controversy

The controversy relates to a map in the NCERT textbook “Exploring Society: India and Beyond” which depicted the territorial extent of the Maratha Empire in 1759 CE. The map showed Maratha influence extending from Thanjavur in the south to Peshawar in the northwest and Cuttack in the east.

Objections were raised by former royal families and Rajput organisations in Rajasthan, who claimed that regions such as Jaisalmer, Mewar, and Bundi were incorrectly shown as part of the Maratha Empire. Following these objections, NCERT removed the map from the revised editions of the textbook.

The petitioners argued that:

NCERT removed the map without adequate consultation with historians and experts.

The decision was taken before completion of the review by an expert committee.

The removal affects accurate representation of Maratha history and cultural heritage.

It violates students’ right to access historically balanced educational material.

The PIL seeks restoration of the map and related references in the NCERT syllabus and CBSE curriculum.

NCERT’s Position

NCERT reportedly stated that the map was removed after a high-powered committee found certain “sweeping generalisations” and concerns regarding historical accuracy. The organisation indicated that a revised version of the map may be included in future editions.

Historical Debate

The controversy has triggered debate over the territorial reach and political influence of the Maratha Empire during the 18th century.

Supporters of the original map cite:

The 1752 Ahadnama treaty between the Mughal Empire and the Marathas

Historical gazetteers and archival records showing Maratha influence in parts of Rajputana.

Critics argue that:

Maratha influence did not amount to direct territorial control over several Rajput states.

Certain regions shown in the map lacked sufficient historical evidence of Maratha rule.

About NCERT:

Established in: 1961

Ministry: Ministry of Education

Headquarters: New Delhi

Functions:

Curriculum development

Textbook publication

Educational research and training

About the Maratha Empire

Founded by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1674.

Capital:

Initially Raigad

The Marathas emerged as a major power after the decline of the Mughal Empire.

Important Maratha leaders:

Sambhaji Maharaj

Peshwa Baji Rao I

Balaji Vishwanath

Mahadji Scindia

Third Battle of Panipat (1761)

Fought between:

Maratha Empire

Ahmad Shah Abdali (Durrani Empire)

Result:

Major setback to Maratha expansion in North India.

Importance of Historical Maps

Historical maps are significant because they:

Help understand political boundaries and spheres of influence.

Reflect historical interpretation and historiography.

Often become subjects of debate due to differing historical perspectives.

Constitutional and Educational Significance

The controversy highlights issues related to:

Academic freedom

Historical interpretation

Curriculum design

Role of state institutions in education

Cultural identity and heritage representation