The Centre has withheld ₹2,152 crore in funds for Tamil Nadu under the Samagra Shiksha programme. This action is primarily due to the state's refusal to implement the three-language formula stipulated in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Tamil Nadu has adhered to a two-language policy, consisting of Tamil and English, and has opted not to make Hindi a mandatory subject in its educational institutions. The state government argues that educational policies should remain independent of financial assistance.
The three-language formula, introduced in the 1968 National Policy Resolution, recommends:
This policy aims to enhance linguistic diversity and promote national integration, yet its implementation has varied significantly across different states.
Tamil Nadu has successfully maintained a two-language policy for decades, comprising Tamil and English. The state asserts that this structure has led to impressive literacy rates, improved educational outcomes, and increased employment opportunities. Additionally, Tamil Nadu emphasizes that the three-language formula is merely a policy guideline and not a legal requirement. The state insists that it has the right to establish its language policies based on regional requirements, reinforcing the principle of cooperative federalism.
While NEP 2020 does not explicitly enforce Hindi as a compulsory language, it retains the three-language formula. The policy allows students to select any two Indian languages along with English. However, Tamil Nadu interprets this framework as indirectly favoring Hindi due to resource allocations and historical context.
The Union Government contends that NEP 2020 aims to create a standardized education system across India, arguing that Tamil Nadu should adhere to its provisions. The Centre believes that language learning fosters cognitive development and national unity. Consequently, it pressures states not to selectively adopt portions of the NEP while rejecting others.
Tamil Nadu views the withholding of funds as an unjust measure. The state maintains that financial support for education should not depend on compliance with specific language policies. It underscores that its two-language policy has yielded positive results and does not require alteration.
Tamil Nadu argues that the three-language formula is a recommendation rather than a statutory obligation. Education falls under the concurrent list, allowing states the autonomy to implement policies that suit their local context. The Constitution does not dictate a specific language formula, further reinforcing Tamil Nadu's position.
A constructive resolution could involve dialogue between the Centre and Tamil Nadu, focusing on educational objectives without enforcing uniform policies. Granting states the flexibility to adapt language policies while aligning with overarching educational goals could pave the way for a harmonious solution. Ultimately, "Language should be a bridge, not a barrier." True progress in education should empower rather than impose.
Q1. Why has the Centre withheld funds from Tamil Nadu?
Answer: The Centre withheld ₹2,152 crore due to Tamil Nadu's refusal to implement the three-language formula of NEP 2020, insisting that education policies should not depend on financial aid.
Q2. What is the three-language formula?
Answer: Introduced in 1968, it recommends that students learn Hindi, English, and a regional language in Hindi-speaking states, while non-Hindi-speaking states should focus on their regional language and Hindi.
Q3. How does Tamil Nadu justify its two-language policy?
Answer: Tamil Nadu argues that its two-language policy has led to high literacy rates and better educational outcomes, asserting that states should have the autonomy to define their language policies.
Q4. Is Hindi required under NEP 2020?
Answer: NEP 2020 does not mandate Hindi but includes the three-language formula, which Tamil Nadu believes indirectly favors Hindi due to historical and resource considerations.
Q5. How can the conflict between Tamil Nadu and the Centre be resolved?
Answer: A resolution could involve dialogue that respects Tamil Nadu's educational autonomy while ensuring that broader national educational goals are met without imposing uniform policies.
Question 1: Why did the Union Government withhold funds from Tamil Nadu?
A) Tamil Nadu's refusal to adopt NEP 2020
B) Tamil Nadu's high literacy rates
C) The state's two-language policy
D) Lack of educational infrastructure
Correct Answer: A
Question 2: What does the three-language formula promote?
A) Regional languages only
B) English as the only medium
C) Linguistic diversity and integration
D) A single language policy
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: What is Tamil Nadu's main argument against the three-language formula?
A) It is too complex
B) It infringes on regional autonomy
C) It is legally binding
D) It benefits Hindi speakers
Correct Answer: B
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