Tamil Nadu has reiterated its opposition to the three-language policy outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP), citing concerns over the potential imposition of Hindi and Sanskrit.
Despite this, the state has actively implemented other components of the NEP, including initiatives focused on vocational training, skill development and introducing new subjects aimed at broadening educational opportunities.
As per TOI reports, the state's minister for Education stressed Tamil Nadu’s commitment to preserving its linguistic heritage by prioritising the Tamil language and culture in schools. He expressed strong reservations against the NEP’s three-language model, which recommends teaching Hindi, Sanskrit, and English. The Tamil Nadu government believes this policy would undermine the prominence of Tamil and erode the state's cultural identity.
The state's refusal to adopt the three-language system underscores ongoing debates about language policies in India's educational framework. Several other states have also opposed the central government's proposal, advocating for more localised approaches prioritising regional languages.
Despite rejecting the language policy, Tamil Nadu has moved forward with other reforms proposed by the NEP, which focus on modernising the state's educational infrastructure. These include expanding vocational education and skill development programs to equip students with practical knowledge better and introducing contemporary subjects that address emerging global trends. The goal is to provide students with a well-rounded education that meets the demands of both local industries and international opportunities.
Tamil Nadu’s position reflects broader regional concerns about language imposition in India, where states with diverse linguistic identities often resist central policies that promote Hindi or Sanskrit at the expense of local languages. The state's proactive adoption of other NEP components shows its willingness to embrace educational reforms that align with its values and goals while maintaining a solid stand on protecting its cultural and linguistic heritage.
This ongoing dispute over language policy highlights the complex relationship between national education reforms and regional autonomy. Tamil Nadu continues to advocate for a more tailored approach to education that respects the state’s unique linguistic identity.