Karnataka's New Grading Policy: A Threat to Linguistic Diversity?

The Karnataka Governor has raised concerns about the state government's policy of awarding only grades for the third language in SSLC exams. This decision, challenged by the Association for Preservation of Local Languages, may affect linguistic diversity and students' engagement. A thorough review has been requested by the Governor.

The Karnataka Governor is scrutinizing a controversial policy decision by the state government to award only grades, rather than marks, for the third language in the SSLC examination. This scrutiny follows a formal representation made by the Association for Preservation of Local Languages, Bengaluru.

Concerns have been raised about the potential negative impact on academic engagement and linguistic diversity. The representation warned that the grading-only system might downplay the academic importance of the subject, potentially affecting students' enthusiasm and engagement.

The Governor has instructed the Chief Secretary to review the policy with input from the Department of School Education and other stakeholders to ensure that students' educational needs and linguistic diversity are safeguarded.

(With inputs from agencies.)