Nep controversy: The new education policy (NEP) of the Central Government proposes the Tri-Language Formula, which is opposed by Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin. After all, is this formula? If it is implemented, will it become mandatory to read Hindi language in the south states? Let us know in detail about this formula.
– The proposed Tri-Language Formula in NEP 2020 says that students should learn three languages, of which at least two should be Indian native language. This formula will be applicable to both government and private schools and allows states to choose languages ​​without any pressure.
Which classes will apply to the formula?
– NEP states that the medium of education up to at least class 5 or class 8 should be mother tongue or local language.
History of Tri-Language Formula
-The Tri-language formula was first proposed by the Education Commission (1964-66), which is officially known as the Kothari Commission. It was formally adopted in 1968 under the leadership of the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
– Tri-language formula was re-confirmed in NEP 1986 during Rajiv Gandhi’s Prime Minister’s tenure. In 1992, the Congress government led by Narsingh Rao amended it to promote linguistic diversity and national unity.
– This formula included three languages- mother tongue or regional language, official language (including English) and a modern Indian or European language.
What is said about this formula in NEP 2020?
In NEP 2020, it is proposed to implement the Tri-language formula soon to encourage multi-languageism from school level itself.
– The policy document states that the implementation of Tri-language formula will continue keeping in mind the need to encourage the constitutional provisions, the aspirations of the regions and the union, to encourage multi-languageism and promote national unity.
Is the purpose of this formula to impose any language on the states?
– It has been clarified in NEP 2020 that there will be more flexibility in the Tri-language formula and no language will be imposed on any state. The policy states that the state, region and themselves can choose three languages ​​to be learned, provided at least two of these are the native languages ​​of India.
What has been said about foreign languages?
According to NEP 2020, secondary level students can also learn foreign languages ​​like Korean, Japanese, French, German and Spanish.
– English, which is the medium of studies in most schools, will now be considered a foreign language. Due to this, students studying English will have to choose two Indian languages.
Why is Tamil Nadu protesting?
– Tamil Nadu has been continuously opposing the Tri-language formula. In 1937, the then Madras government headed by C Rajagopalachari made Hindi compulsory in the schools there. The Dravidian leaders like Justice Party and Periyar opposed this decision on a large scale. This policy was canceled in 1940, but anti -Hindi sentiments remained intact.
– When the Tri-language formula was introduced in the year 1968, Tamil Nadu opposed it, calling it an attempt to impose Hindi. Tamil Nadu, under the leadership of the then Chief Minister CN Annadurai, adopted a two-language policy, under which only Tamil and English were taught.
– School education is concurrent subject, due to which states can refuse to adopt this formula. Tamil Nadu is the only state that has never implemented the Tri-language formula. He has chosen English instead of Indian languages ​​including Hindi and other regional languages.
What is the reason for the latest controversy?
– The Center has stopped the first installment of Rs 573 crore of the central assistance for the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) for the major aspects of the NEP 2020 of Tamil Nadu, especially the Tri-Bhasha formula.
According to the rules related to the policy, it is mandatory for the states to implement NEP guidelines to achieve funding for Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan.