NCERT Textbook Highlights Women's Respect in Vedic Period, Notes Status Changes Over Time
The NCERT Class 9 Social Science textbook highlights that women held a respected position during the Vedic period, participating in scholarly learning, rituals, and social activities. It cites a verse from the Manu-smriti emphasizing respect for women but notes that their status fluctuated and declined over time due to changing social and political conditions. The textbook also references examples of educated women and their contributions in later historical periods.