Why doesn't Pakistan mention Vedic civilization or the Mauryan/Gupta Empire in their history books?

 In Pakistan, the historical narrative tends to focus on specific periods and events that are more closely tied to the region’s Islamic heritage and the subsequent Mughal and British colonial eras. However, it’s essential to recognize that the omission of certain ancient Indian civilizations, such as the Vedic civilization, Mauryan Empire, and Gupta Empire, from Pakistani history books is a complex issue influenced by various factors:

1. Partition and Identity:

   • The partition of India in 1947 led to the creation of Pakistan as a separate nation with its distinct identity. During this process, there was a deliberate emphasis on Islamic heritage and a desire to establish a unique national narrative.
   • As a result, the focus shifted towards Islamic history, culture, and contributions, which shaped the curriculum and textbooks in Pakistan.

2. Educational Priorities:

   • Pakistan’s educational system prioritizes topics that are deemed relevant to its contemporary context. The emphasis is often on events and figures related to Pakistan’s formation, independence struggle, and subsequent nation-building.
   • Ancient Indian civilizations, including the Vedic period and Mauryan/Gupta empires, are considered more distant in time and less directly connected to Pakistan’s present.

3. Political and Ideological Factors:

   • The choice of historical content in textbooks is influenced by political ideologies, national narratives, and the desire to foster a cohesive identity.
   • The Vedic period and pre-Islamic empires may not align with the dominant narrative of Pakistan as an Islamic state.

4. Regional Perspectives:

   • Different regions within Pakistan may have varying historical perspectives. For instance, Sindh and Punjab have rich historical legacies that predate the Islamic period, including the Indus Valley Civilization.
   • However, the prominence of Islamic history often overshadows these earlier civilizations.

5. Textbook Revisions and Controversies:

   • Over the years, there have been debates and controversies surrounding the content of history textbooks in Pakistan. Some argue for a more inclusive approach that acknowledges the diversity of historical influences.
   • Periodic revisions occur, but the process is complex and involves negotiations among various stakeholders, including educators, policymakers, and religious groups.

6. Curriculum Constraints:

   • The limited space available in textbooks necessitates choices about what to include and exclude. As a result, some historical periods receive more attention than others.
   • The Vedic and ancient Indian periods may be covered briefly or omitted due to these constraints.

In summary, while the Vedic civilization, Mauryan Empire, and Gupta Empire are significant in the broader context of South Asian history, their representation in Pakistani textbooks is influenced by a combination of historical, political, and educational factors. It’s essential to recognize that historical narratives are dynamic and subject to ongoing discussions and revisions¹²³.