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Former NCERT Chief Clarifies 3-Language Policy Flexibility Amid Tamil Nadu Stand

Former NCERT Director JS Rajput has clarified that the Centre's three-language policy for schools is a flexible guideline, not a compulsory directive, emphasizing that school education is a state subject. This comes as Tamil Nadu Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi reaffirmed the state's commitment to its long-standing two-language policy, stating it will not bend to perceived impositions. The CBSE plans to introduce a phased three-language curriculum starting from the 2026-27 academic year. The issue gains prominence with Tamil Nadu's assembly elections scheduled for April 23.

Key Points: 3-Language Policy Not Compulsory, Says Former NCERT Director

  • Policy is a guideline, not a directive
  • School education is a state responsibility
  • Tamil Nadu refuses to compromise on two-language policy
  • CBSE to phase in three languages from 2026-27
  • State declined central funds over ideology
2 min read

"Nobody can say it's compulsory": Former NCERT Director JS Rajput highlights flexibility of three-language policy

Former NCERT Director JS Rajput says the three-language policy is a flexible guideline, not a directive, as Tamil Nadu reaffirms its two-language policy.

"But nobody can say that it's compulsory... This is the flexibility that has been brought... - JS Rajput"

New Delhi, April 17

Former NCERT Director JS Rajput has emphasised that school education is the responsibility of the state government, clarifying that the Centre's three-language policy serves as a guideline rather than a mandatory directive.

Former NCERT Director JS Rajput, while speaking to ANI, said, "Not just Hindi. One can study Odia or Telugu. That is to be arranged by the state government. School education is the responsibility of the state government... The Centre has given indications, there are no directives... In our case, the state has the power. They have to decide. This is another aspect that everyone would like to study English... But nobody can say that it's compulsory... This is the flexibility that has been brought..."

Earlier, Tamil Nadu Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi has backed Chief Minister MK Stalin's remarks on the Central Board of Secondary Education's (CBSE) three-language curriculum, asserting that the state government remains committed to its long-standing two-language policy introduced by Periyar and will not "compromise" on its principles.

Speaking to ANI, Poyyamozhi emphasised that the message conveyed by the Chief Minister was clear that Tamil Nadu would not yield to what it perceives as attempts to impose policies contrary to its established educational framework.

"The Chief Minister has firmly upheld the two-language policy set by Periyar, refusing to compromise. Even when offered Rs 3,458 crores, the state declined, insisting that ideology cannot be imposed. The message is clear that the state will not bend. The Chief Minister's words underline that the state board and its principles remain uncompromised," said the Tamil Nadu Education Minister.

CBSE is set to introduce a phased three-language policy from the 2026-27 academic year, beginning with Class 6. The policy requires students to learn an additional language, with at least two of the three being Indian languages.

Tamil Nadu is scheduled to go to the polls for its 234-member Legislative Assembly in a single phase on April 23, with the counting of votes set to take place on May 4.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Good to see a former NCERT director stating facts. Education is on the State List for a reason. Let states decide what's best for their students. Forcing a one-size-fits-all approach never works in India.
A
Anjali F
While I respect state autonomy, learning three languages is actually a huge advantage for our youth in a globalized world. Tamil Nadu's two-language policy might limit opportunities. 🤔 We should encourage multilingualism, not see it as an imposition.
K
Karthik V
The timing of this statement, just before TN elections, is interesting. Seems like an attempt to diffuse a political hot potato. The principle is correct though – centre guides, states implement.
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Sarah B
As someone who studied in a CBSE school with three languages, it was challenging but rewarding. However, I can understand the pride Tamil Nadu has in its two-language system. The flexibility Rajput sir mentions is the democratic way forward.
M
Manish T
Respectfully, the former director's clarification comes a bit late. The perception of imposition has already been created. Better communication from the centre on such sensitive issues is needed to avoid unnecessary political friction.
D
Divya L
At the end of the day, the focus should be on quality of education, not just the number of languages. Let's not make

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