Indian scientists criticise Vedic studies

Leading scientists and mathematicians in India have strongly criticised government proposals to introduce ancient - or Vedic - mathematics and astrology as academic subjects in schools and colleges.

They said the proposals would condemn students who are dependent on state-funded schools and colleges to a sub-standard education.

They said there wasn't enough evidence to prove the existence of Vedic mathematics, and astrology was a matter of belief, rather than a science.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service