NCERT revises class 8 textbook, removes map showing Jaisalmer as part of Maratha empire

JAISALMER: The country’s apex curriculum body, NCERT, has now removed the disputed map from the recently released revised digital edition of the Class 8 Social Science English textbook for the academic session 2026–27. Earlier, in the 2025–26 English textbook, the controversial map appeared on page 71. However, in the updated digital edition for 2026–27, the map has been removed from pages 70 and 71.


The controversy stemmed from the inclusion of a map in the Class 8 Social Science textbook published by NCERT, which showed Jaisalmer as part of the then Maratha Empire. Following objections raised by historians, Rajput organizations, and several royal families of Rajasthan—including former member of the Jaisalmer royal family, Chaitanya Raj Singh—NCERT had earlier removed the map from the Hindi version of the textbook for the academic year 2025–26 and did not include it in the updated digital edition.




Now, after the Hindi version, NCERT has also removed the same disputed map from the English textbook’s digital edition for the 2026–27 curriculum. It is noteworthy that in the 2025–26 syllabus, Jaisalmer had been shown as part of the Maratha Empire, but in the latest English digital edition, the map is no longer included.

This decision was taken following continuous objections from historians, Rajput groups, and former royal families of Rajasthan.


Representatives from royal families, including those from Jaisalmer, as well as public representatives, had also submitted demands to the central government seeking removal of the map.

They argued that the depiction was incorrect and that the Marathas did not rule over parts of Rajasthan as shown.

Chaitanya Raj Singh had strongly objected to the depiction, calling it historically misleading, factually incorrect, and a serious error. He had demanded immediate correction from the Union Education Minister.

Following Jaisalmer, royal families from Mewar and Bundi also raised objections to being shown as part of the Maratha Empire.

With NCERT’s latest decision, the controversy has, for now, subsided. Members of the former Jaisalmer royal family, Rajput leaders, and experts have welcomed the move, expressing satisfaction over the removal of the disputed map.


Confirming the removal, Ex Mharaval Chaitanya Raj Singh stated that they had initially raised their objection through social media and later formally communicated with NCERT in writing. He said that correcting the mistake and removing the map from both Hindi and English textbooks is a welcome step. Academic institutions, he added, are expected to provide students with accurate and authentic knowledge.


He further emphasized that history is deeply connected with cultural heritage, self-respect, and public sentiment. Therefore, any presentation should be unbiased and based on facts rather than driven by any agenda. There should be no compromise with facts, and content must be included only on the basis of verified evidence. He stressed that curriculum development should prioritize expert review and historical authenticity to ensure that future generations receive accurate and balanced knowledge.


Devendra Pratap Singh, Director of the Jaisalmer Fort Palace Museum, stated that the earlier map issued by NCERT was controversial and had been opposed by several prominent royal families of Rajasthan. He emphasized that there is no historical evidence supporting the inclusion of Jaisalmer in the Maratha Empire. He also noted that the royal family had written to the NCERT Director regarding the issue, and termed the removal a positive step.


Following the removal of the map, there is a sense of happiness among the people of Jaisalmer. The region has a rich and glorious history, and events like the “Dhai Saka” stand as strong testimony to it. Locals believe that raising questions on such a proud history without solid evidence is unacceptable, and they have welcomed the decision.


Vikram Singh Nachna, another member of a royal family, stated that they had strongly objected to the controversial map published in the Class 8 Social Science textbook. He said that portraying Jaisalmer and the entire Rajasthan as part of the Maratha Empire was not only misleading but also contrary to historical facts. He added that they had communicated firmly with NCERT, demanding correction.