New Delhi, Feb 21: Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan strongly criticized Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin’s recent letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of raising "imaginary concerns" driven by political motivations.
Speaking at a press conference, Pradhan clarified that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 does not mandate the imposition of any specific language on states.
"I want to emphasize that the NEP does not recommend the imposition of any language on students in any state. This includes no suggestion to impose Hindi in Tamil Nadu," Pradhan stated.
Pradhan added that he learned through social media about the letter written by CM Stalin to PM Modi, which, in his view, was not written in good faith. He described the letter as filled with political motivations and based on unfounded concerns, crafted for Stalin's own political benefit.
The Union Minister highlighted that the core objective of the NEP 2020 is to elevate the education system to global standards while remaining deeply rooted in India's traditions. He pointed out that the NEP encourages the promotion of linguistic and cultural heritage, including those of states like Tamil Nadu.
"The Government of India is conducting all major entrance examinations in 13 languages, including Tamil," Pradhan said.
He also emphasized the Modi administration’s commitment to honoring Tamil Nadu’s language and heritage, citing PM Modi’s announcement of India’s first Thiruvallur cultural center in Singapore to promote Tamil culture globally.
"This is our commitment. Successive governments have followed a language formula in education since 1968. By not implementing NEP 2020, we are depriving students, teachers, and parents of global opportunities. Education should not be politicized," Pradhan asserted.
He added that several non-BJP states are already adopting the NEP and collaborating with the Centre.
Pradhan further noted that Tamil Nadu is losing out on approximately Rs 5,000 crore by not adopting PM Shri schools, which focus on scientific education and teaching methods in Tamil, in line with the NEP’s emphasis on mother tongue instruction up to class eight.
Appealing directly to CM Stalin, Pradhan reiterated that the Centre is dedicated to the development of all regions of the country. "I appeal to the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu that the Government of India is committed to the development of every part of the country. The Prime Minister is particularly proud of Tamil literature and language," he concluded.
CM Stalin had earlier written to PM Modi regarding the delay in releasing 'Samagra Shiksha' funds for Tamil Nadu, citing concerns over Pradhan’s statement that funds would be withheld until the state implements the "three-language policy" under the NEP. The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK)-led state government has been vocal in opposing the Centre’s push for the Hindi language, claiming that the federal government is withholding funds until Tamil Nadu adopts the NEP.
