New Delhi, Feb 17: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan responded to allegations by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government regarding language imposition and the lack of funds for implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) in Tamil Nadu. He reaffirmed the Central government's commitment to the NEP.
Pradhan explained, "The NEP is designed to create competition among students and provide a level playing field. It serves as a common platform for all. I respect every language, and under the vision of Prime Minister Modi, this policy places emphasis on mother tongues."
He acknowledged Tamil as one of the oldest languages but emphasized that there is no harm in offering multilingual education to students in Tamil Nadu. "While Tamil is indeed one of the oldest languages in our civilization, what’s wrong with students in Tamil Nadu learning multiple languages, including Tamil, English, and other Indian languages? The NEP does not impose Hindi or any other language on them. Some political figures in Tamil Nadu are using this issue for political gain, but the Government of India remains fully committed to the NEP, which has specific guidelines."
The Minister also pointed out that some political parties opposed the NEP due to their political interests, even though education is on the concurrent list.
Earlier, Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister and DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin criticized the BJP-led Union government on Monday, accusing them of attempting to impose Hindi on the state.
