Three Language Policy
The three-language formula sounds good on paper, but how it will be implemented on the ground remains a huge challenge. My nephew studies in a state government school in rural Andhra Pradesh affiliated with CBSE, where the Hindi teachers cannot even speak Hindi properly, let alone write it. This reflects the condition of many schools in our country, where there is a lack of quality teachers and adequate facilities to support proper learning.
Also, let us be realistic-how is English even considered a foreign language, and why is CBSE treating it as such? English is deeply ingrained in Indian society and our education system. It helps us communicate globally and gives us a significant advantage over countries like China and Japan, which have only recently started emphasizing English in their education systems, recognizing its importance as a global language. Our strong foundation in English has contributed significantly to economic growth, attracting multinational companies and creating employment opportunities for a large young population.
So why is CBSE treating English as a foreign language when it is one of our official languages?
Both major national parties, BJP and Congress, have long attempted to promote Hindi as a national language. However, due to strong opposition from non-Hindi-speaking states, they have not been able to enforce it directly. The current approach is indirect.
The implementation of the three-language policy reflects this. Two of the languages are supposed to be Indian languages. Students will obviously choose their mother tongue and English-the language that benefits their careers. This leaves the third language, and in most cases, Hindi becomes the default choice because schools do not offer viable alternatives, and students are left with little real choice.
At the same time, CBSE has not made computer education mandatory from Class 1, yet it introduces Al concepts in Grade 3 and coding in Grade 5. This approach is disconnected from ground realities. The focus should first be on strengthening the basics- the foundation upon which all advanced learning depends.
There are also concerning practices at the school level. Thin kindergarten books of barely 50 pages are sold for ₹1000, often without any publisher or author mentioned, and are not available elsewhere. Such malpractices exploit parents and highlight weak regulation.
While it is good that CBSE is attempting to modernize an outdated system, reforms must be practical and grounded. There should be mandatory computer education, nutrition awareness, and civic sense training from Class 1 onwards. From Class 5, students should be introduced to real-world skills such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, cooking, cleaning, basic automotive maintenance, sewing, and stitching. From Class 9 onwards, more advanced and career-oriented subjects like coding, robotics, cybersecurity, graphic design, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship should be offered.
Students should also be encouraged to participate in community service activities, such as visiting elder care centers from Class 4 onwards, to develop empathy and a sense of responsibility.
Additionally, NCERT books alone are often not sufficient to push students academically. As a result, parents and schools rely on supplementary materials to ensure better outcomes and prepare students for future challenges.
Feel free to share your opinion.