CBSE: Learning the Spicy Way of Life! Indian Students to Become Youngest Herbalists @ Herbal Heritage
Learning the Spicy Way of Life!
Indian Students to Become Youngest Herbalists @ Herbal Heritage
TINA KHATRI
Indian students are about to become the youngest herbalists in the world. Middle schoolers will soon gain firsthand knowledge about the medicinal applications and health benefits of Indian spices through a vocational subject—Herbal Heritage (Subject Code – 924A, 924B, 924C)—in the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) curriculum. The subject will prepare students to lead the world and be a part of global growth, as Indians still opt for herbal remedies over allopathic medicines on a regular basis. A 2024 study published in World Journal of Pharmaceutical and Medical Research noted that more than 70% of India’s 1.1 billion population still use these non-allopathic systems of medicine. Furthermore, the World Health Organization (WHO) states that 60% of the world’s population relies on herbal medicine and about 80% of the population in developing countries depends almost totally on it for their primary health care needs.
A Step Toward Reviving Ancient Knowledge
The curriculum will offer students a deep dive into the world of Indian spices, such as turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, cumin, and cloves, exploring their medicinal, culinary, and therapeutic benefits. By learning about the health benefits of these spices—known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties—students will be equipped with knowledge that has the potential to positively impact their personal well-being, as well as the communities they live in.
Future-Oriented Curriculum
The subject will focus on a practical, hands-on approach to learning. It is planned that students will not only read about spices but also engage in activities like growing medicinal plants, preparing simple herbal remedies, and learning how spices contribute to holistic health.
Teacher Training: A Key to Success
One of the challenges in rolling out this new subject is ensuring that teachers are well-equipped to handle it. Currently, there is a shortage of trained educators who are familiar with both the traditional uses of spices and how to teach them effectively. To address this, CBSE has announced an online teacher training program scheduled for December 27, where educators will be trained in the subject's content, pedagogy, and practical applications. “New Education Policy 2020 recognizes the need for the teachers to get trained in high-quality content and pedagogy. This policy further emphasizes the need for training so that it gets exhibited in classroom teaching-learning,” said Dr. Biwajit Saha, CBSE Director (Skill Education).
Impact on Students & Society
“The impact of this subject could extend far beyond the classroom. By fostering an appreciation for India’s herbal heritage, students will be empowered to make healthier, more informed decisions regarding their lifestyle and diet. In a country where the global demand for organic and sustainable health solutions is rapidly growing, this knowledge could spark an interest in careers related to herbalism, naturopathy, wellness industries, and even environmental conservation.”
— Nisha Ahmad, School Principal, The Emerald Heights World School, Indore
Inculcating Practical Knowledge for Life
“By inculcating such a practical subject, we are not only teaching children about the benefits of natural medicine but also equipping them with skills they can use throughout their lives. This subject may also inspire future herbalists, wellness practitioners, and even scientists to research and innovate in the field of natural medicine.”
— UK Jha, CBSE Coordinator & School Principal, Ekayanaa School, Indore
Herbal Heritage and Sustainable Living
“Herbal Heritage can contribute to the larger movement of sustainable living and wellness. By learning about spices that have been used for generations to treat ailments naturally, students will understand the importance of sustainable farming practices and the preservation of biodiversity.”
— Manoj Bajpai, CBSE Resource Person & School Principal, Birla Open Minds International School, Indore
Pride in India’s Natural Resources
“This new curriculum also fosters a sense of pride and respect for India’s natural resources. We are raising a generation of students who will understand the power of our spices and herbs and contribute to reviving and preserving this knowledge for future generations. Spices are not just ingredients; they are part of our cultural identity and health legacy.”
— Padma Shri Janak McGilligan Palta
Indian Students to Become Youngest Herbalists @ Herbal Heritage
TINA KHATRI
Indian students are about to become the youngest herbalists in the world. Middle schoolers will soon gain firsthand knowledge about the medicinal applications and health benefits of Indian spices through a vocational subject—Herbal Heritage (Subject Code – 924A, 924B, 924C)—in the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) curriculum. The subject will prepare students to lead the world and be a part of global growth, as Indians still opt for herbal remedies over allopathic medicines on a regular basis. A 2024 study published in World Journal of Pharmaceutical and Medical Research noted that more than 70% of India’s 1.1 billion population still use these non-allopathic systems of medicine. Furthermore, the World Health Organization (WHO) states that 60% of the world’s population relies on herbal medicine and about 80% of the population in developing countries depends almost totally on it for their primary health care needs.
A Step Toward Reviving Ancient Knowledge
The curriculum will offer students a deep dive into the world of Indian spices, such as turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, cumin, and cloves, exploring their medicinal, culinary, and therapeutic benefits. By learning about the health benefits of these spices—known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties—students will be equipped with knowledge that has the potential to positively impact their personal well-being, as well as the communities they live in.
Future-Oriented Curriculum
The subject will focus on a practical, hands-on approach to learning. It is planned that students will not only read about spices but also engage in activities like growing medicinal plants, preparing simple herbal remedies, and learning how spices contribute to holistic health.
Teacher Training: A Key to Success
One of the challenges in rolling out this new subject is ensuring that teachers are well-equipped to handle it. Currently, there is a shortage of trained educators who are familiar with both the traditional uses of spices and how to teach them effectively. To address this, CBSE has announced an online teacher training program scheduled for December 27, where educators will be trained in the subject's content, pedagogy, and practical applications. “New Education Policy 2020 recognizes the need for the teachers to get trained in high-quality content and pedagogy. This policy further emphasizes the need for training so that it gets exhibited in classroom teaching-learning,” said Dr. Biwajit Saha, CBSE Director (Skill Education).
Impact on Students & Society
“The impact of this subject could extend far beyond the classroom. By fostering an appreciation for India’s herbal heritage, students will be empowered to make healthier, more informed decisions regarding their lifestyle and diet. In a country where the global demand for organic and sustainable health solutions is rapidly growing, this knowledge could spark an interest in careers related to herbalism, naturopathy, wellness industries, and even environmental conservation.”
— Nisha Ahmad, School Principal, The Emerald Heights World School, Indore
Inculcating Practical Knowledge for Life
“By inculcating such a practical subject, we are not only teaching children about the benefits of natural medicine but also equipping them with skills they can use throughout their lives. This subject may also inspire future herbalists, wellness practitioners, and even scientists to research and innovate in the field of natural medicine.”
— UK Jha, CBSE Coordinator & School Principal, Ekayanaa School, Indore
Herbal Heritage and Sustainable Living
“Herbal Heritage can contribute to the larger movement of sustainable living and wellness. By learning about spices that have been used for generations to treat ailments naturally, students will understand the importance of sustainable farming practices and the preservation of biodiversity.”
— Manoj Bajpai, CBSE Resource Person & School Principal, Birla Open Minds International School, Indore
Pride in India’s Natural Resources
“This new curriculum also fosters a sense of pride and respect for India’s natural resources. We are raising a generation of students who will understand the power of our spices and herbs and contribute to reviving and preserving this knowledge for future generations. Spices are not just ingredients; they are part of our cultural identity and health legacy.”
— Padma Shri Janak McGilligan Palta