Introducing Thang-Ta in school curriculum: Aligning with NEP 2020
|
Laikhuram Maria
Introduction
In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes the need for holistic and inclusive education that nurtures students' physical, mental, and emotional well-being. One innovative approach to achieving this goal is integrating traditional martial arts, like Thang-Ta, into the school curriculum from grassroot level. Thang-Ta, a traditional martial art form from Manipur, India, combines physical prowess, mental discipline, and cultural heritage, making it an ideal for inclusion in modern education system.
What is Thang-Ta?
Thang-Ta, also known as "Huyen Langlon," is an ancient education system of the indigeneous people of Manipur dates back centuries in Manipur. While primarily recognized as a martial art form, Thang-Ta embodies different aspects of life which includes physical training, mental discipline, cultural heritage, and spiritual( with focus on breathing,which is meditative) development. Here are some aspects of Thang Ta as an ancient education system:
Physical Training:
Thang Ta provides rigorous physical training, enhancing strength, agility, and coordination. It includes exercises for flexibility, endurance, and precision.
Practitioners learn various combat techniques, including strikes, blocks, footwork, and weapon handling.
Mental Discipline
The practice of Thang Ta requires intense focus and mental discipline. It involves strategic thinking, quick decision-making, and adaptability in combat situations.
Meditation and breathing exercises are integral parts of training, promoting mental clarity and emotional control.
Moral and Ethical Education
Thang Ta emphasizes values such as respect, humility, and discipline. Practitioners are taught to use their skills responsibly and ethically. The code of conduct within Thang Ta promotes non-violence and the use of martial skills for self-defense and protection of others.
Spiritual Development: Thang Ta is often practiced with a spiritual perspective, drawing from indigenous beliefs and rituals. It includes practices aimed at connecting with nature and the cosmos.
Spiritual growth is seen as an essential aspect of mastering Thang Ta, with rituals and ceremonies enhancing the practitioner's inner development.
Warfare Tactics
Thang-ta has many elements of warfare.Arambai is one such element which is taught in warfare tactics.. Arambai, also known as Alapai tenton (meaning arrowhead flew in distance), is a dart weapon used by the Meitei cavalry soldiers of Kangleipak while mounted on Manipur Ponies. The cavalry armies use arambai as attacking or retreating weapon, and it is usually poisoned.
Alignment with NEP 2020
The NEP 2020 envisions an education system that is rooted in Indian ethos and traditions while preparing students to thrive in the modern world. Integrating Thang-Ta into the curriculum aligns with several key aspects of NEP 2020:
Holistic Development: NEP 2020 emphasizes the importance of developing students' physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Thang-Ta, with its rigorous physical training and meditative practices, contributes significantly to students' overall health and fitness.
Cultural Preservation: By introducing Thang-Ta in schools, students gain an appreciation for Indian martial arts and cultural heritage. This aligns with NEP 2020's goal of promoting Indian knowledge systems and traditions.
Skill Development: Thang-Ta enhances various skills such as agility, coordination, concentration, and self-defense. These skills contribute to students' overall personality development, making them more confident and self-reliant.
Inclusivity: Thang-Ta can be practiced by students of all genders and backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and breaking down barriers related to physical education and sports.
Implementation Strategy
Introducing Thang-Ta into the school curriculum requires a well-structured approach. Here are some steps to ensure its effective implementation
Curriculum Design: Develop a comprehensive curriculum that integrates Thang-Ta into physical education classes.
This curriculum should include basic techniques of physical fitness,the art of meditation,manifestation and visualisation, and theoretical knowledge about the history and cultural significance of Thang-Ta.
Training Educators: Provide specialized training for physical education teachers to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach Thang-Ta. Collaboration with Thang-Ta experts and practitioners can enhance the training process.
Infrastructure: Ensure that schools have the necessary infrastructure and equipment for Thang-Ta practice. This includes safe practice spaces, training weapons, and protective gear.
Assessment and Evaluation: Develop assessment criteria to evaluate students' progress in Thang-Ta. This can include both practical assessments of physical skills and theoretical exams on the cultural aspects of the martial art.
Extracurricular Activities : Encourage schools to organize Thang-Ta competitions, workshops, and demonstrations. This will motivate students to actively participate and excel in the martial art.
Benefits of Thang-Ta in Schools
The inclusion of Thang-Ta in the school curriculum offers numerous benefits
Physical Fitness: Regular practice of Thang-Ta enhances physical fitness, improves cardiovascular health, and promotes overall well-being.
Mental Discipline: Thang-Ta requires concentration, focus, and mental discipline, helping students develop better cognitive abilities and stress management skills.
Cultural Awareness: Learning Thang-Ta fosters a sense of pride and appreciation for Indian culture and heritage among students.
Self-Defense: Thang-Ta equips students with self-defense skills, boosting their confidence and ability to protect themselves in adverse situations.
Character Building: The principles of Thang-Ta, such as respect, humility, and perseverance, contribute to character building and moral development.
Conclusion
Integrating Thang-Ta into the school curriculum is a forward-thinking approach that aligns with the goals of NEP 2020. It offers a unique blend of physical fitness, mental discipline, and cultural education, contributing to the holistic development of students. By embracing traditional martial arts like Thang-Ta, we can create a more inclusive, culturally rich, and well-rounded education system that prepares students for the challenges of the future
The writer is a teacher and can be reached [email protected]
Introduction
In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes the need for holistic and inclusive education that nurtures students' physical, mental, and emotional well-being. One innovative approach to achieving this goal is integrating traditional martial arts, like Thang-Ta, into the school curriculum from grassroot level. Thang-Ta, a traditional martial art form from Manipur, India, combines physical prowess, mental discipline, and cultural heritage, making it an ideal for inclusion in modern education system.
What is Thang-Ta?
Thang-Ta, also known as "Huyen Langlon," is an ancient education system of the indigeneous people of Manipur dates back centuries in Manipur. While primarily recognized as a martial art form, Thang-Ta embodies different aspects of life which includes physical training, mental discipline, cultural heritage, and spiritual( with focus on breathing,which is meditative) development. Here are some aspects of Thang Ta as an ancient education system:
Physical Training:
Thang Ta provides rigorous physical training, enhancing strength, agility, and coordination. It includes exercises for flexibility, endurance, and precision.
Practitioners learn various combat techniques, including strikes, blocks, footwork, and weapon handling.
Mental Discipline
The practice of Thang Ta requires intense focus and mental discipline. It involves strategic thinking, quick decision-making, and adaptability in combat situations.
Meditation and breathing exercises are integral parts of training, promoting mental clarity and emotional control.
Moral and Ethical Education
Thang Ta emphasizes values such as respect, humility, and discipline. Practitioners are taught to use their skills responsibly and ethically. The code of conduct within Thang Ta promotes non-violence and the use of martial skills for self-defense and protection of others.
Spiritual Development: Thang Ta is often practiced with a spiritual perspective, drawing from indigenous beliefs and rituals. It includes practices aimed at connecting with nature and the cosmos.
Spiritual growth is seen as an essential aspect of mastering Thang Ta, with rituals and ceremonies enhancing the practitioner's inner development.
Warfare Tactics
Thang-ta has many elements of warfare.Arambai is one such element which is taught in warfare tactics.. Arambai, also known as Alapai tenton (meaning arrowhead flew in distance), is a dart weapon used by the Meitei cavalry soldiers of Kangleipak while mounted on Manipur Ponies. The cavalry armies use arambai as attacking or retreating weapon, and it is usually poisoned.
Alignment with NEP 2020
The NEP 2020 envisions an education system that is rooted in Indian ethos and traditions while preparing students to thrive in the modern world. Integrating Thang-Ta into the curriculum aligns with several key aspects of NEP 2020:
Holistic Development: NEP 2020 emphasizes the importance of developing students' physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Thang-Ta, with its rigorous physical training and meditative practices, contributes significantly to students' overall health and fitness.
Cultural Preservation: By introducing Thang-Ta in schools, students gain an appreciation for Indian martial arts and cultural heritage. This aligns with NEP 2020's goal of promoting Indian knowledge systems and traditions.
Skill Development: Thang-Ta enhances various skills such as agility, coordination, concentration, and self-defense. These skills contribute to students' overall personality development, making them more confident and self-reliant.
Inclusivity: Thang-Ta can be practiced by students of all genders and backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and breaking down barriers related to physical education and sports.
Implementation Strategy
Introducing Thang-Ta into the school curriculum requires a well-structured approach. Here are some steps to ensure its effective implementation
Curriculum Design: Develop a comprehensive curriculum that integrates Thang-Ta into physical education classes.
This curriculum should include basic techniques of physical fitness,the art of meditation,manifestation and visualisation, and theoretical knowledge about the history and cultural significance of Thang-Ta.
Training Educators: Provide specialized training for physical education teachers to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach Thang-Ta. Collaboration with Thang-Ta experts and practitioners can enhance the training process.
Infrastructure: Ensure that schools have the necessary infrastructure and equipment for Thang-Ta practice. This includes safe practice spaces, training weapons, and protective gear.
Assessment and Evaluation: Develop assessment criteria to evaluate students' progress in Thang-Ta. This can include both practical assessments of physical skills and theoretical exams on the cultural aspects of the martial art.
Extracurricular Activities : Encourage schools to organize Thang-Ta competitions, workshops, and demonstrations. This will motivate students to actively participate and excel in the martial art.
Benefits of Thang-Ta in Schools
The inclusion of Thang-Ta in the school curriculum offers numerous benefits
Physical Fitness: Regular practice of Thang-Ta enhances physical fitness, improves cardiovascular health, and promotes overall well-being.
Mental Discipline: Thang-Ta requires concentration, focus, and mental discipline, helping students develop better cognitive abilities and stress management skills.
Cultural Awareness: Learning Thang-Ta fosters a sense of pride and appreciation for Indian culture and heritage among students.
Self-Defense: Thang-Ta equips students with self-defense skills, boosting their confidence and ability to protect themselves in adverse situations.
Character Building: The principles of Thang-Ta, such as respect, humility, and perseverance, contribute to character building and moral development.
Conclusion
Integrating Thang-Ta into the school curriculum is a forward-thinking approach that aligns with the goals of NEP 2020. It offers a unique blend of physical fitness, mental discipline, and cultural education, contributing to the holistic development of students. By embracing traditional martial arts like Thang-Ta, we can create a more inclusive, culturally rich, and well-rounded education system that prepares students for the challenges of the future
The writer is a teacher and can be reached [email protected]