MLA flags incorrect maps on walls of schools

Students in several schools of Chamba district, including the Bhramaur subdivision, are being misinformed due to outdated and incorrect maps displayed on school walls. These maps, painted by hand in most cases, are not only missing key geographical updates but also fail to show the national capital, Delhi, in many instances. Several newly formed union territories and states are either misrepresented or completely absent.

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This issue came to light during a recent visit by Bharmour MLA Dr Janak Raj, who inspected multiple schools in the region. He discovered that many institutions were still displaying maps that do not reflect the current and officially recognised territorial boundaries of India. Calling the situation “misleading for students” and “a matter of national concern”, he expressed deep concern over the integrity of information being imparted to schoolchildren.

“Students take the information displayed in schools seriously. When the maps are factually incorrect, they end up learning distorted and incomplete versions of our nation’s geography,” Dr Janak Raj said. He noted that this is not just a matter of academic error but also has implications for national unity and awareness.

Most of these maps, created manually by painters, have not been updated for years. Some do not even show Delhi, while others ignore key changes like the reorganisation of Jammu & Kashmir and the formation of new union territories.

The MLA has formally written to the Deputy Commissioner of Chamba, urging swift action. He has requested a district-wide survey of all school wall maps and immediate replacement of erroneous ones with the latest, government-approved versions.

“The use of misleading and outdated maps in many government and private schools across Chamba is deeply concerning. I have formally written to the DC, urging prompt action. It is hoped that necessary steps will be taken soon, keeping in view the future of students and national interests.”

He emphasised that using accurate and up-to-date educational materials is crucial not only for factual learning but also for instilling patriotism and national consciousness among students. He also called for the provision of precise maps, murals, and educational tools across all schools.