The National Education Policy's Pledge - Curriculum books to be translated into 12 Indian languages -written by Poonam Chanchlani (BCA, Data Science)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the groundbreaking strides of the new National Education Policy (NEP), emphasizing its dedication to recognizing and honoring every language in India. Speaking at the 'Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam' on the NEP's third anniversary, Modi dismissed the act of politicizing languages for personal gain, asserting that such efforts would now dwindle.

 

In his inaugural address,  the prime minister stressed the NEP's role in rectifying a longstanding injustice : evaluating students based on language rather than their abilities. This holistic policy, he remarked, acknowledges and respects diverse languages across the nation. It presents a significant stride towards achieving social justice and fostering inclusivity. Modi noted how Europe's developed countries harnessed the power of native languages, and he highlighted India's rich linguistic heritage as a potent asset. The prime minister decried the perception that non-English speakers were deemed less capable and underscored the NEP's role in dismantling this notion.

 

Education in a student's mother tongue, Modi affirmed, ushered in a novel form of justice. The policy enables students to unleash their talents without linguistic constraints, creating an environment that nurtures confidence and growth.

 

Modi enthusiastically shared that subjects spanning from social sciences to engineering would now be taught in Indian languages, heralding an era of language-affirming education. He expressed his confidence that when students grasp concepts in languages, they are comfortable with, their skills and talents flourish unhindered.

 

Furthermore, PM Modi spotlighted India's burgeoning reputation as a hub of possibilities, attracting foreign interest in establishing Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) campuses overseas. He revealed that IIT campuses in Tanzania and Abu Dhabi were on the cusp of operation, and global universities expressed interest in establishing campuses within India.

 

At the core of NEP's vision lies India's transformation into a research and innovation hub. Modi emphasized the equal importance bestowed upon traditional knowledge systems and futuristic technologies, ensuring a holistic approach to education.

 

Closing his address, Modi encouraged schools to enlighten students about pertinent subjects like disaster management, climate change, and clean energy. He asserted that NEP aligns with building engaged, productive citizens, championing equity, inclusivity, and a pluralistic society.

 

The event saw the prime minister release the first funds under the PM SHRI scheme, underscoring the government's commitment to fostering holistic education. Curriculum books, translated into 12 Indian languages, were also unveiled, symbolizing a crucial step towards democratizing education.