Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Challenges Tamil Nadu CM Over Education Policy Controversy
Union Education Minister's Strong Critique
Chennai: On Saturday, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched a fierce critique against Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister M.K. Stalin regarding the contentious three-language policy linked to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. He accused Stalin of distorting the reform for political advantage.
Pradhan firmly dismissed Stalin's assertions of 'Hindi imposition,' labeling them as a 'worn-out narrative' designed to obscure governance shortcomings. He emphasized that the NEP encourages linguistic freedom rather than enforcing any language, highlighting the importance of mother tongue education for improved student learning outcomes.
"The characterization of NEP as a mandatory Hindi policy is deceptive," Pradhan stated, advocating for multilingualism as a beneficial asset rather than a liability. He contended that equipping students with diverse language skills would enhance, not diminish, Tamil culture in a globalized context.
The Minister underscored the Centre's efforts to promote Tamil language and culture through various national and international initiatives, including the Kashi Tamil Sangamam.
He also pointed out significant reforms introduced by the NEP, such as teacher training initiatives, strengthening educational institutions via District Institutes of Education and Training (DIETs), and frameworks like the National Professional Standards for Teachers (NPST) and the National Mission for Mentoring (NMM).
Pradhan further criticized the DMK government for hindering essential educational programs in Tamil Nadu. He claimed that the state has delayed the rollout of PM SHRI schools by not signing the necessary memorandum of understanding, despite prior agreements.
Additionally, he addressed the establishment of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas, noting that the state government continues to resist their creation despite Supreme Court directives, which he argued has denied underprivileged students access to quality education and modern facilities.
Rejecting the notion of resource limitations as a mere 'facade,' Pradhan asserted that the Centre is dedicated to providing funding, teacher training, and institutional enhancement. He accused the state government of favoring 'divisive politics' over educational advancement.
In a call for collaboration, Pradhan urged the Tamil Nadu government to transcend political posturing and participate in what he termed a national mission to empower Indian languages while improving educational prospects for students.