Multilingual Flexibility Emphasized in NEP Amidst Tamil Nadu's Concerns

Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary reassures that the National Education Policy supports multilingualism, addressing concerns about language imposition. Despite Tamil Nadu's reservations, Rs 538 crore was allocated to the state under the Samagra Shiksha program. The dispute continues over NEP and central funds linked to PM-SHRI schools.

Union Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary stated that the National Education Policy does not enforce any single language on states, including Hindi, but instead promotes multilingualism. This was in response to questions in Lok Sabha during the Question Hour on Monday.

The Minister highlighted that even though Tamil Nadu has raised objections to the NEP 2020, the central government has allocated Rs 538 crore to the state under the Samagra Shiksha program. While explaining that it is the state's responsibility to manage the funds effectively, he stressed that there was no imposition of any language in the policy.

Chaudhary added that the NEP's clause 4.13 encourages multilingualism, benefiting learning outcomes through early exposure to multiple languages, with a focus on proficiency in at least two Indian languages by the age of 15. Despite Tamil Nadu's objection, primarily due to a preference for a two-language formula, the central government continues its educational funding, seeking support for the PM-SHRI initiative.

(With inputs from agencies.)