NCERT faces heat over misattribution of game from Manipur to Mizoram

IMPHAL: Following alleged misattribution by the national council of educational research and training (NCERT) of a sport from Manipur to Mizoram in one of its textbooks, a BJP MLA from Manipur has condemned the error, urging the NCERT for immediate correction.

Expressing his dismay, Manipur BJP MLA RK Imo Singh stated, “Mukna-Kangjei is a traditional sport of Manipur, a variant of hockey that also incorporates wrestling, hence known as wrestling-hockey.”

Singh criticized the NCERT for associating this traditional sport with Mizoram, emphasizing that it is an integral part of Manipur’s cultural heritage.

He called upon the NCERT to rectify this error promptly.

Furthermore, the education (schools) department physical education teachers’ association stressed the significance of accuracy in educational materials, particularly concerning cultural heritage and indigenous games.

They urged the authorities to issue a statement and swiftly correct the mistake.

The controversy arises from the textbook “Learning Through Traditional Games”, an 88-page publication by the NCERT, aimed at identifying and describing indigenous games from various states.

On page 24, the Manipuri game of Mukna Kangjei is erroneously listed under Mizoram.

Responding to the matter, officials informed PTI that they are actively investigating the issue.

They suggested that the misattribution might be a genuine typing error, noting that the chapter's content accurately attributes the sport to Manipur and its historical significance.