Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai has clarified that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is designed to promote regional languages and is not aimed at imposing Hindi on the people of India. Speaking during an interaction in Siaha district, Mizoram, Rai addressed growing concerns and misinformation surrounding the policy’s language component.
Rai stated that one of the core objectives of NEP 2020 is to preserve and strengthen the use of local and regional languages across all states. He urged people not to be misled by rumours, asserting that the central government is committed to safeguarding the linguistic and cultural diversity of the country.
Importance of Northeast in National Development
During his visit, Nityanand Rai emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi considers the development of the Northeastern states a top priority. He reiterated that a strong and developed India is not possible without the comprehensive growth of the Northeast region.
Rai called upon local residents to cooperate with border security forces operating in the region to ensure national security, especially given Mizoram’s proximity to international borders.
Clarification on Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA)
Addressing another significant issue, Rai explained that the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) is intended to offer protection to religious minorities—specifically Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians—facing persecution in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan.
He stated that the law is not discriminatory but is part of India’s effort to uphold humanitarian values and secular principles by safeguarding vulnerable communities.
Meeting with Mizoram Chief Minister
Earlier in the day, the Minister met with Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma in Aizawl. The two leaders discussed various state-level issues, including security, development, and implementation of central schemes in the state.
