The state government has officially initiated the process of drafting a state education policy, nearly two years after announcing its intent to do so. The move comes as part of the government’s efforts to develop an independent framework, considering regional and cultural educational needs.
Formation of an Expert Panel
Based on recommendations from an inter-departmental committee, the Education Department has written to the Chief Minister’s Office, requesting the formation of an expert panel to draft the policy framework. Sources indicate that this panel is expected to be constituted soon.
Before proposing names for the expert panel, the inter-departmental committee has been tasked with studying the Centre’s New Education Policy (NEP)-2020. While the state government has opposed NEP-2020, it has faced criticism from opposition parties, which accuse it of indirectly implementing aspects of the policy through the Higher Education Department.
NEP-2020 and the State’s Stand
Several states, including Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and West Bengal, have refused to implement NEP-2020, citing concerns over language policies and the shift in curriculum control. Experts argue that the policy reduces the significance of regional languages and centralizes decision-making.
A key question in the ongoing debate is whether states are constitutionally required to implement NEP-2020. With education moved from the state list to the concurrent list through the 42nd Amendment in 1976, some experts believe state curriculum frameworks should align with national standards, while others advocate for a more localized approach.
Concerns Over Language and Curriculum
Recently, the state Education Minister expressed strong objections to the CBSE’s newly proposed exam pattern for Class X (2025-26), alleging that it sidelines the Punjabi language. In a letter to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the minister described the move as a direct attack on the linguistic and cultural identity of the state.
The Road Ahead
As the expert panel takes shape, the government’s approach to education policy will determine how it balances national guidelines with state-specific educational priorities. The drafting process will be closely watched, particularly for its stance on curriculum integration and language representation in education.
