In a recent development, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has come under fire for a glaring error in one of its textbooks, “Learning through Traditional Games,” published for the academic year 2023-2024.

The controversy stems from the mislabeling of the indigenous game of Manipur, Mukna Kangjei, as a popular game from Mizoram.

The error, highlighted in a textbook published by the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) under NCERT’s umbrella, has triggered demands for immediate corrections from concerned educational bodies and stakeholders.

Notably, Education (Schools) Department Physical Education Teachers’ Association, Imphal has expressed strong disapproval.

The association issued a press release expressing their dismay over the oversight, emphasizing the critical need for accurate representation of cultural heritage and indigenous games in educational materials.

Additionally, it has taken proactive steps by reaching out to both the State Council of Educational Research and Training in New Delhi and NCERT New Delhi, urging them to acknowledge and rectify the mistake promptly.

Despite the misattribution being listed under Mizoram in the chapter heading, subsequent text correctly attributes the game to Manipur, as reported.

Additionally, the chapter includes a map of Manipur and photographs depicting players engaged in the game.

This error, though possibly stemming from typographical or proofreading oversight, has sparked concerns over potential misinformation and the undermining of Manipur’s rich cultural heritage.

Stakeholders await swift action from NCERT to correct the mistake and prevent further confusion.