The Centre has reaffirmed that NEP 2020 will not impose any language, ensuring flexibility in the three-language formula and promoting multilingual education. Minister Dr. Sukanta Majumdar conveyed this in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha on March 19.
He cited paragraph 4.13 of NEP 2020, which upholds the three-language formula with flexibility. The policy respects constitutional provisions, regional aspirations, and the need for national integration. States, regions, and students will have the freedom to choose languages, provided at least two are Indian native languages.
Responding to CPI(M) leader Dr. John Brittas’ question about protests in Tamil Nadu against Hindi imposition, Majumdar clarified that students can change one or more languages in Grades 6 or 7. However, by the end of secondary school, they must demonstrate proficiency in three languages, with at least one Indian language at the literature level.
He also referenced paragraph 4.12 of NEP 2020, which highlights studies showing that children acquire languages rapidly between ages two and eight. Research suggests that multilingualism enhances cognitive skills. The policy encourages an interactive and experiential approach to language learning, with an emphasis on the mother tongue in early education. Reading and writing in additional languages will begin in Grade 3.
Furthermore, technology will play a key role in language learning. High-quality textbooks will be developed in Indian languages, and teachers will adopt bilingual teaching methods. This aligns with the government’s broader goal of integrating multilingualism at both school and higher education levels.
