The Grade 9 NCERT Mathematics textbook, titled 'Ganit Manjari,' marks a significant departure from traditional teaching methods by integrating historical narratives and cultural references into the curriculum. Released for the academic year 2026-27, the textbook aims to highlight the rich history of mathematics in India, featuring prominent figures such as Baudhāyana, Aryabhata, and Brahmagupta. Concepts are introduced through stories, starting with the ancient Sindhu-Saraswati civilization's grid-based city planning, which is linked to coordinate systems. The book emphasizes the contributions of Indian scholars to foundational mathematical concepts, including the formalization of zero and the treatment of positive and negative numbers. While the textbook has been praised for its innovative approach, it has also raised concerns regarding its potential to dilute core mathematical concepts and affect students' readiness for global academic challenges. This initiative aligns with the broader goals of the National Education Policy 2020 to integrate Indian knowledge systems into education.