The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is driving transformative changes in the Indian education system, with a strong focus on promoting regional languages in schools and higher education. Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering linguistic diversity and preserving India’s rich cultural heritage. This initiative aligns with the vision of a developed India by 2047, emphasizing education in mother tongues for cognitive and cultural enrichment.
Promoting Indian Languages in Schools
One of NEP 2020’s standout features is its emphasis on multilingual education. Schools are encouraged to teach students in their mother tongue or regional language up to Class 5, with an extension to Class 8 wherever feasible. This approach aims to enhance comprehension and intellectual development among young learners.
Key initiatives under this policy include:
- Primary Books in Regional Languages: 104 books introduced across 22 states to facilitate learning in mother tongues.
- Indian Sign Language (ISL): Learning materials and textbooks for classes 1 to 12 are now available in ISL, promoting inclusivity.
- Digital Platforms for Language Learning: DIKSHA offers over 3,66,370 e-content resources in 133 languages, supported by 200 TV channels broadcasting educational content in 29 languages.
Research supports that learning in one’s native language improves understanding, cognitive growth, and confidence, making these steps invaluable for school education.
Strengthening Higher Education Through Indian Languages
NEP 2020 has extended its linguistic focus to higher education, ensuring regional languages play a significant role in shaping future professionals and academics.
Key highlights include:
- Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS): Established 51 IKS centers and integrated traditional knowledge into curricula in over 8,000 institutions.
- Textbook Translation: Translated 1,500 undergraduate textbooks into 12 regional languages, enabling wider access to quality education.
- Regional Language Exams: Competitive exams like JEE, NEET, and CUET are now conducted in 13 regional languages.
- Undergraduate Programs in Local Languages: 428 courses offered in 12 regional languages across 19 central institutions.
Recognizing Classical and Regional Languages
The government has taken significant steps to preserve ancient languages, granting classical status to Marathi, Assamese, Bengali, Pali, and Prakrit. This recognition brings the total to 11 classical languages, reflecting India’s cultural pride. Efforts to promote classical languages include research centers, university chairs, and specialized institutions for languages such as Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Odia.
The inclusion of 22 languages in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution further underlines the government’s commitment to preserving linguistic diversity.
Leveraging Technology for Language Preservation
Technological advancements are being used to preserve and promote Indian languages:
- National Language Translation Mission: Bridges linguistic barriers with AI-driven translation tools.
- Bhashini Project: Facilitates seamless communication between speakers of diverse languages.
- Digital Learning Tools: Ed-tech platforms are creating digital materials in regional languages, ensuring wider accessibility.
These initiatives aim to make Indian languages competitive globally while fostering linguistic pride among students.
Celebrating Cultural and Linguistic Unity
Programs like Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat celebrate linguistic diversity through cultural exchanges. Events such as the Saurashtra Tamil Sangamam and Kashi Tamil Sangamam promote regional languages while showcasing historical and cultural links.
Hindi has also received significant attention as an official language, with initiatives like the “Hindi Shabd Sindhu” dictionary and increased usage in governance. These efforts ensure linguistic unity while respecting diversity.
Vision for the Future
NEP 2020 sets a clear roadmap for making education accessible, equitable, and culturally relevant. By prioritizing regional languages, the government ensures inclusivity while enriching India’s linguistic and cultural heritage. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the role of languages as bridges between generations, fostering a unified and vibrant future for India.
