UGC draft curriculum proposes teaching ancient Indian mathematics, like Kala Ganpana and Bharatiya Bijganit

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has circulated a draft Learning Outcomes-based Curriculum Framework (LOCF) for undergraduate mathematics, proposing the inclusion of traditional Indian mathematical concepts such as Kala Ganpana (traditional timekeeping) and Bharatiya Bijganit (Indian algebra).

These heritage-based modules are part of a broader effort to enrich modern pedagogy through cultural context.

The proposed curriculum spans multiple ancient systems. It includes instruction on how Mahurtas (auspicious times) are calculated using the Panchanga (Indian calendar), teaches polynomial division via the Paravartya Yojayet Sutra (a Vedic technique meaning "transpose and apply"), and references canonical works like the Sūrya Siddhānta and Āryabhaṭīyam. Students would learn cosmic time structures—from Yugas and Kalpas to Brahma’s Day as well as observe ancient Vedic time-measure units such as Ghatis and Vighatis alongside modern timekeeping like IST and GMT.

The draft modules, developed under NEP-2020’s LOCF framework, are intended to be integrated as Discipline-Specific Core (DSC), Discipline-Specific Elective (DSE), or Generic Elective (GE) courses, providing depth and flexibility in program design.

According to Sushil K Tomar, chair of the curriculum committee, “This curriculum will be a transformative initiative ... ensuring both academic excellence and practical relevance,” aimed at producing graduates capable of contributing across disciplines.

However, not all responses have been positive. Professor Amber Habib of Shiv Nadar University expressed concern that emphasizing ancient mathematics might leave students underprepared for contemporary academic challenges.

“A graduate … will find it difficult to cope even with the Master’s programmes of national institutions like IITs and IISERs,” he commented, suggesting an imbalance may undermine scientific competence.

The draft is currently open for stakeholder feedback as UGC invites public comments ahead of finalizing the framework.

This consultation offers universities the opportunity to reflect on how indigenous knowledge systems can be blended with modern mathematical education to foster multidisciplinary competence.