Bhubaneswar, 06 August (H.S.): Odisha School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond on Thursday dismissed reports alleging errors in the Class I textbook, stating that the claims are unfounded and misrepresented.

Speaking after a high-level meeting at the Chief Minister’s Office to review the controversy, the Minister clarified that no such mistakes exist in the textbook as being claimed in public discourse. However, he assured that the government would provide corrected versions wherever necessary to avoid any confusion among students.

Addressing concerns over the inclusion of the song “Nimbuda Nimbuda,” Gond said the issue has been incorrectly portrayed by sections of the media. He explained that the National Education Policy allows incorporation of songs and cultural content from different states to promote national integration and cultural awareness among students.

The Minister further alleged that the matter is being unnecessarily sensationalised without a proper understanding of policy provisions.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda