ThePrint ThePrintAM: What's behind the row over NCERT’s teacher training manual on gender?
Jan 14, 2026
A teacher-training manual from NCERT has ignited a heated debate over gender education in India. The manual distinguishes biological sex from gender, emphasizing cultural variances. Critics claim it promotes Western ideologies and lowers academic standards, while medical professionals argue it fosters equality and challenges stereotypes. The manual is intended for educators, not students, and seeks to update teaching practices. With a history of controversy surrounding NCERT materials, its future remains uncertain.
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Sex Versus Gender Distinction Triggered Debate
- A page from NCERT's teacher training manual explaining sex as biological and gender as social sparked social media outrage.
- The excerpt says sex is constant while gender varies across culture and time and can be reoriented without complex medical intervention.
Viral X Post Sparked The Row
- Sakrant Sano posted the page on X and tagged the education minister, questioning Western ideology in teacher training.
- His post went viral and prompted several critics to attack the manual publicly.
Medical Professionals Back The Manual
- Medical professionals publicly defended the manual, saying its sex/gender distinction is clear and factually correct.
- Supporters argued teaching these concepts early helps break stereotypes, build empathy, and promote equality.