Three-language Policy Under NEP 2020

General Studies Paper -2

Context: The Centre has withheld funds to Tamil Nadu under the Samagra Shiksha scheme due to the state’s refusal to implement the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020) and its three-language formula.

• Tamil Nadu follows a two-language policy (Tamil and English) and has consistently opposed the introduction of Hindi, viewing it as a threat to its linguistic identity.

What is the Three Language Formula?

• NEP 1968 made Hindi compulsory across the nation, with specific language requirements for states.
  • Hindi-speaking states were to teach Hindi, English, and a modern Indian language (preferably a South Indian language).
  • Non-Hindi-speaking states were expected to teach local language, Hindi, and English.
• NEP 2020 retains the three-language formula, introduced in the NEP of 1968.
  • States, regions, and students can choose the three languages, as long as at least two are native to India.
  • In addition to the state language, children must learn one other Indian language (not necessarily Hindi).
  • Emphasizes bilingual teaching, focusing on the home language/mother tongue and English.
  • Sanskrit is given special emphasis as an optional choice in the three-language formula.

Significance of the Three-Language Formula

• Enhances Multilingual Proficiency: Encourages students to learn multiple languages, improving cognitive skills and communication.
• National Integration and Cultural Exchange: Helps bridge the north-south linguistic divide by promoting Hindi in non-Hindi states and regional languages in Hindi-speaking states.
• Increased Employment and Mobility Opportunities: Knowledge of multiple languages expands career prospects and makes migration for jobs and higher education easier across different states.
• Strengthens Regional Languages: Ensure that regional languages continue to be actively used and preserved.

What are the Concerns?

• Perceived Imposition of Hindi: Non-Hindi-speaking states, especially Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Karnataka, oppose it as an attempt to impose Hindi.
• Practical Implementation Challenges: Many schools lack qualified teachers for teaching additional languages.
• Burden on Students: Learning an additional language may increase the academic load, particularly for students who struggle with language acquisition.
• Potential Neglect of Foreign Languages: Some argue that instead of a third Indian language, students should be encouraged to learn global languages like French, German, or Mandarin to improve international opportunities.

Way Ahead

• Constructive dialogue and a practical compromise between the Centre and State is the way forward.
• Education was transferred to the concurrent list during the Emergency, making it a shared responsibility.
• Disagreements over the third language should not hinder funding for Samagra Shiksha, a key education program.