Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has reiterated his support for the three-language policy outlined in the National Education Policy 2020, emphasizing the importance of Telugu as the mother tongue while advocating for learning Hindi and English for communication and livelihood.
Addressing the state assembly, Naidu urged citizens to avoid politicizing language education, stating that multilingualism fosters better opportunities and cultural understanding. His remarks come amid resistance from Tamil Nadu’s DMK government to the perceived imposition of Hindi, sparking a broader debate on language policies in India.
Language as a Tool for Progress
Naidu highlighted that language serves as a means of communication rather than a measure of knowledge. He reiterated that Telugu must remain paramount in Andhra Pradesh but stressed the utility of Hindi for interacting in Delhi and English for global opportunities. “Language is not something to hate. Our mother tongue is Telugu. National language is Hindi. International language is English.
We should learn as many languages as possible for our livelihood, but we should never forget our mother tongue,” he stated. Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan echoed similar sentiments, criticizing Tamil Nadu’s opposition to Hindi while defending the NEP’s flexibility. Naidu also proposed introducing additional languages like Japanese or German to further improve employment prospects.
Background and Resistance
The discussion gains significance as Tamil Nadu’s DMK government continues to oppose the three-language policy, citing fears of Hindi imposition. DMK leader MK Stalin has called for greater recognition of Tamil and criticized the Centre’s approach. In contrast, Naidu’s stance aligns with promoting multilingual education while safeguarding regional identity.
His remarks also reflect Andhra Pradesh’s vision to balance cultural heritage with practical benefits in education and employment.
Recent Developments
The Centre has withheld funds from Tamil Nadu under the Samagra Siksha scheme due to its refusal to implement the NEP, further complicating the situation. This move has heightened tensions between the Centre and Tamil Nadu, with both sides maintaining their positions on language policy.
The standoff highlights the challenges in implementing uniform education policies across diverse linguistic landscapes in India.
Implications and Future Directions
The ongoing debate underscores the need for a nuanced approach to language education that respects regional identities while fostering national integration. As states navigate these complexities, it is crucial to engage in dialogue that prioritizes both cultural preservation and economic opportunities. The Centre’s stance on NEP and the reactions from states like Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh will shape the future of language policies in India.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Chandrababu Naidu’s balanced approach underscores the importance of dialogue and coexistence in resolving contentious issues like language policies. By advocating multilingualism without undermining Telugu, he sets an example for fostering inclusivity while respecting regional identities.
As India navigates linguistic diversity, constructive discussions on language education can pave the way for harmony and progress. What are your thoughts on multilingual education as a bridge between tradition and modernity? Share your views below!
