Punjab has taken a major step toward promoting inclusive education by approving separate religious curricula for non-Muslim students across the province. The initiative marks the first time minority students will receive religious education based on their own faiths through officially approved textbooks.
The Punjab Curriculum and Textbook Board (PCTB) has issued a formal notification announcing the introduction of new religious education books from the 2026–27 academic session. The move is aimed at ensuring that students from minority communities have access to learning materials that reflect their religious beliefs and traditions.
Under the newly approved framework, students belonging to different faiths will study dedicated subjects related to their respective religions. Christian students from Grades 1 to 9 and Grade 11 will be taught a subject titled “Christian Education.” Meanwhile, Hindu students in Grades 1 to 3 will study textbooks developed under the title “Sanatan Dharma.”
Similarly, Sikh students from Grades 1 to 3 will be provided with “Sikh Dharma” textbooks designed specifically for their religious education needs. In another significant development, a dedicated curriculum called “Kalasha Education” has been introduced for students belonging to the Kalasha community for the first time.
The curriculum also includes religious education for Buddhist and Zoroastrian students. Buddhist students in Grades 1 to 3 will study textbooks focused on Buddhism, while Zoroastrian students from Grades 1 to 5 will follow a curriculum based on the teachings and principles of Zoroastrianism.
According to PCTB officials, the objective of the initiative is to ensure that minority students receive education that aligns with their faith while strengthening equality and inclusiveness within the education system. Authorities believe the policy will help create a more representative learning environment for students from diverse religious backgrounds.
The approved curriculum will be implemented across Punjab from the 2026–27 academic year. The notification has already been sent to educational boards, district education authorities, and relevant institutions to ensure timely implementation of the new policy.
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