Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has voiced concerns over the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, labeling it as a tool for imposing linguistic dominance. His criticism focuses on the three-language formula outlined in the policy, which he argues threatens Tamil Nadu’s cultural identity. However, the central government has maintained that the formula promotes linguistic diversity and does not impose any specific language.
The Three-Language Formula and Its Implications
The NEP 2020 mandates that students learn three languages, with at least two being indigenous to India. States, regions, and students can decide which languages to adopt. The policy allows Tamil Nadu to continue with Tamil and English while selecting a third language, which may or may not be Hindi.
The central government has clarified that the policy does not impose Hindi or any other language. Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar recently assured Parliament that the formula offers flexibility and respects India’s linguistic diversity.
Tamil Nadu’s Concerns Over Linguistic Identity
Stalin’s concerns stem from Tamil Nadu’s long-standing resistance to Hindi imposition. Tamil has played a central role in the state’s cultural and political identity. The opposition to Hindi dates back to the 1930s when attempts to introduce Hindi in schools triggered widespread protests.
Linguist David Schulman noted in Tamil: A Biography that Tamil has become a symbol of resistance to North Indian cultural dominance. Tamil Nadu has maintained a two-language system of Tamil and English, rejecting the introduction of Hindi in schools.
Benefits and Challenges of Trilingualism
Research shows that bilingualism enhances cognitive ability, and trilingualism may offer additional benefits. Trilingual adults have shown better cognitive flexibility and memory retention. However, learning three languages simultaneously could confuse younger students, making it necessary to introduce languages gradually.
From a practical standpoint, trilingualism prepares students for global communication. Speaking multiple languages improves career prospects and enhances cross-cultural understanding. For Tamil Nadu, retaining Tamil alongside English while introducing a third Indian language can strengthen students’ national and global engagement.
Preserving Indigenous Languages
The NEP’s focus on multilingualism could help preserve India’s linguistic diversity. Regional languages like Kumaoni in Uttarakhand and Kodava in Karnataka face extinction due to the dominance of Hindi and English. The NEP recommends teaching in the mother tongue at the primary level, which research shows improves learning outcomes.
The central government has proposed creating high-quality textbooks and training teachers to teach in local languages. Institutions like the Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL) in Mysuru will play a key role in supporting this effort.
Why Tamil Will Retain Its Strength
Tamil Nadu’s cultural identity is deeply rooted in its language. With over 90 million speakers worldwide, Tamil is a recognized official language in Sri Lanka and Singapore. Its influence in literature, cinema, and art ensures its continued relevance.
Tamil’s antiquity and rich literary tradition reinforce its status as a prestige language. Unlike smaller regional languages, Tamil faces no real threat from the inclusion of Hindi or other Indian languages under the NEP. The state’s control over language selection ensures that Tamil will continue to hold a dominant position in education and culture.
Conclusion
The NEP 2020’s three-language formula presents both opportunities and challenges. While Tamil Nadu’s concerns over linguistic identity are historically grounded, the policy’s flexibility allows states to protect their cultural heritage. Introducing a third language alongside Tamil and English can empower students without compromising Tamil Nadu’s linguistic integrity.
