Debate over Sex and Gender in NCERT: The Teacher’s Manual Controversy

India’s educational system today stands at a crossroads - caught between a progressive, inclusive, and gender-sensitive learning and resolute conservative resistance to what is often termed as ‘Western Ideology.’ Among many policy debates centering around the same theme, one such topic of interest is the ongoing controversy surrounding the NCERT (National Council of Educational Research and Training) teacher’s manual. This manual defines “Sex” as the biological difference and “Gender” as the socio-cultural construct.

This widespread debate stresses the importance of including gender-sensitive topics, such as differentiating sex from gender, and raising awareness among teachers and tutors. At the same time, critics argue that promoting such topics is a promotion of Western gender ideology, which the conservatives refuse to accept.

​The inclusion of gender and sexuality education in the Indian school curriculum was mandated by the 2014 Supreme Court judgement in National Legal Service Authority vs. Union of India. The development of a specific manual (teacher resource), titled “Training Material for Teacher Educators on Gender Equality,” was initiated in 2013 and is available on the NCERT website. According to this module, understanding stereotypes, common gender perceptions, and gender relations will create a more aware and informed society. It is important to note that this manual is designed specifically as a training tool for teacher education, not as instructional material for students.

​The manual focuses on the fact that sex is biological, while gender is a socio-cultural construct that is variable and can be changed or reoriented. NCERT officials and education experts have underscored that the purpose of this manual is to re-educate teachers with clarity over pedagogical sensitivity to enable them to engage with classroom realities much more responsibly than just prescribe classroom content.

The current focus stems from a plea by a Class 12th student seeking the integration of transgender-inclusive sexuality education into school curricula nationwide. NCERT claims to have addressed these issues through these teacher-training modules. Additionally, programs for gender equality include proposals for gender-neutral toilets and uniforms, as well as discontinuing the practice of assigning school activities according to a student's gender.

​Critics argue that these programs lead to a form of social engineering, forcing a Western liberal perspective on Indian audiences. They maintain that using science to facilitate a cultural shift is unacceptable to local societal values. Conversely, many doctors and educators have praised the materials as a means to end stereotypical chains of gender bias.

​A petition is currently before the Supreme Court to recognize the rights of transgender people and make them visible within the educational framework. The next court hearing is expected to be held on February 6, 2026. It remains to be seen how this debate will affect the future actions of the council.