Punjab Mandates Punjabi in Schools, Challenges CBSE Exam Pattern
The Punjab government has made Punjabi a mandatory subject in all schools, regardless of the board they follow. This decision directly responds to CBSE’s new exam pattern, which, according to Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, reduces the importance of regional languages.
Government’s Stand on Linguistic Diversity
Bains accused CBSE of deliberately sidelining Punjabi in schools. Speaking at Punjab Bhawan, he emphasized that Punjabi is more than a language—it represents cultural heritage. He also announced plans to introduce Punjab’s own education policy to strengthen regional language education.
Strict Enforcement and Penalties
- Schools must include Punjabi as a main subject, or student certificates will become invalid.
- Authorities fined Mohali’s Amity International School ₹50,000 for violating the Punjab Learning of Punjabi and Other Languages Act, 2008.
- Two schools in Jalandhar also faced penalties for similar violations.
Punjab’s Demand for Recognition
Bains criticized CBSE for ignoring Punjabi in its draft policy. He plans to write to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, urging action against those responsible. He stressed that CBSE must respect India’s federal structure and safeguard all regional languages.
Punjab’s New Education Policy
To ensure Punjabi’s prominence in schools, the government will form a committee of experts. This group will draft Punjab’s independent education policy, focusing on linguistic diversity and education rights.
Conclusion
By making Punjabi compulsory, the Punjab government aims to protect regional identity and challenge CBSE’s policies. This move ensures that students receive education in their mother tongue while promoting linguistic inclusivity.
