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Former UGC Chief on New Bill: Why Indian Words in Education Matter

The former head of the University Grants Commission is pleased to see Indian language terms featured in a major new education bill. He believes it's crucial for the country to take pride in its linguistic heritage. The proposed legislation seeks to streamline India's higher education system under one regulatory body. This move is part of broader efforts to prioritize Indian languages in academic settings.

Key Points: Ex-UGC Chairman Supports Indian Words in Shiksha Adhishthan Bill

  • Former UGC chairman supports using Indian words like 'Bharat' and 'Vikas' in the new education bill
  • He emphasizes national pride in India's linguistic roots and constitutional identity
  • The bill aims to create a single regulatory body for higher education in India
  • UGC is developing digital resources and textbooks in Indian languages for education
2 min read

Happy that Indian words are used: Former UGC chairman on Shiksha Adhishthan Bill

Former UGC Chairman M Jagadesh Kumar praises the use of Indian language terms in the new Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill, advocating for linguistic pride.

"It's important for us to take pride in our Indian roots and languages. I am happy that Indian words are used in this new system - M Jagadesh Kumar"

New Delhi, December 19

Former UGC Chairman M Jagadesh Kumar supports the use of Indian language words in the new proposed Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill, which was introduced in Lok Sabha on December 15, 2025.

He stated that we should be proud of our Indian roots and language, rather than the use of Hindi and Sanskrit words in the proposed bill.

Expressing happiness that Indian words are incorporated and highlighted in the system, he said, "It's important for us to take pride in our Indian roots and languages. I am happy that Indian words are used in this new system"

He mentioned that the UGC is continuing its efforts to prioritise the Indian language medium in higher education.

"We are working on giving importance to the Indian language medium even in higher education. UGC is working on developing digital resources and writing new textbooks in Indian languages.", says Kumar.

Additionally, he noted that Indians should take pride in naming the new regulatory system using familiar Indian words like "Bharat" and "Vikas," noting that Bharat is in the constitution and Vikas is a common name, and that Indian languages are interconnected.

"As an Indian, all of us should take pride in naming the new regulatory system using Indian words. Most of these words are familiar across the country... Bharat is there in our Constitution... Vikas is a common name nationwide. All our Indian languages are in some way or another linked to each other."

The Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill was proposed to overhaul India's higher education regulatory framework by establishing a single, unified umbrella body. It includes the formation of three councils to streamline decisions and maintain academic standards: Regulatory, Accreditation and Standards.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul R
Fully support this. For too long, our education system has had a colonial hangover. Using Indian terminology is a sign of self-respect. However, the focus should be on the substance of the bill and ensuring it actually improves education quality, not just the names.
A
Aman W
Good sentiment, but implementation is key. Writing textbooks in Indian languages is a massive task. They must ensure accuracy and keep up with global advancements in science and tech. We cannot afford to be isolated.
S
Sarah B
As someone who has studied here, I think this is a positive move for inclusivity. Many students from rural backgrounds struggle with English-medium instruction. Prioritizing Indian languages can help bridge that gap.
K
Karthik V
Jai Hind! It's high time our institutions reflect our identity. 'Shiksha Adhishthan' sounds much better than another English acronym. Hope this pride extends to supporting all Indian languages equally, not just Hindi and Sanskrit.
N
Nikhil C
While I appreciate the sentiment, I have a practical concern. In a globalized world, will this create a disadvantage for our graduates competing internationally? Balance is essential. We must be rooted but also have wings to fly globally.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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