"As political science teachers we have to be abreast of what's happening," she said. "This book won't let you sit still."
In a country where rote learning has prevailed even at the most elite schools, the new emphasis on critical thinking is a major shift in pedagogy. More revolutionary still is the substance of the new curriculum. Before, the emphasis in political science was political theory. "This is realpolitik," Malik said.
In the Indian politics textbook, for instance, which Malik will start teaching at the end of this month, are explicit mentions of several highly controversial political events of the recent past, from emergency rule under former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in the mid-1970s to the attacks on Muslims in Gujarat just five years ago.
Read more of "A new look at history as India turns 60" on the IHT website.
Happy Independence Day!
