Campus Times | Lucknow

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has released a new Class 9 Social Science textbook, Understanding Society: India and Beyond, for the 2026–27 academic session. The revised book introduces several new topics designed to provide students with a deeper understanding of India democratic framework and electoral system through practical learning.

One of the key additions to the textbook is a chapter explaining the concept of Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The chapter outlines why periodic verification of voter lists is necessary, how errors are identified and corrected, and why updating electoral rolls plays a crucial role in ensuring fair, transparent and credible elections.

The content is intended to help students understand the significance of maintaining accurate voter records as part of a robust democratic process.

Activity section focuses on coalition politics

To strengthen students understanding of India evolving political landscape, NCERT has included a dedicated activity on coalition politics. The exercise encourages learners to identify the governments and alliances formed after every Lok Sabha election from 1977 to 2024.

The activity is designed to promote analytical thinking while familiarising students with the changing nature of government formation in parliamentary democracy.

Explaining EVMs, VVPAT and the election process

The textbook also offers detailed explanations of the functioning of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) and Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) systems. In addition, students will learn about the different stages of the election process and the role played by various democratic institutions in conducting free and fair elections.

Focus on practical democratic awareness

With the revised textbook, NCERT seeks to move beyond textbook definitions by encouraging students to develop a practical understanding of democratic governance and electoral participation. The updated content aims to equip learners with the knowledge needed to better appreciate the functioning of India democratic institutions and electoral mechanisms.