Should the Centre Implement a Law for Mother Tongue Education? Karnataka CM Advocates Kannada in Madrasas
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Synopsis
In a significant move, Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah advocates for a law promoting education in mother tongues, spotlighting the need for Kannada instruction in madrasas. This initiative aims to strengthen the integration of minority communities and preserve the cultural heritage of Karnataka as the state celebrates its 70th anniversary.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah calls for a law to facilitate education in mother tongues.
- Plans to upgrade 900 schools into Karnataka Public Schools (KPS).
- Emphasis on teaching Kannada in madrasas across the state.
- Government allocates Rs 483 crore for Urdu schools development.
- Initiative aims to integrate minority communities into the education system.
Bengaluru, Nov 1 (NationPress) Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has called upon the Central government to formulate appropriate legislation to guarantee that education is provided in the mother tongue. He also announced plans to transform 900 Kannada-medium and Urdu-medium schools into Karnataka Public Schools (KPS) and emphasized the importance of teaching Kannada in madrasas.
During the 70th Kannada Rajyotsava celebration organized by the Department of School Education and Literacy, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to adapting the Kannada language to meet contemporary technological demands, particularly to mitigate job losses linked to Artificial Intelligence (AI).
"The government is resolved to establish Kannada as a language of modern technology. I urge intellectuals and technical professionals to support this initiative," he stated.
He noted that 800 Kannada schools and 100 Urdu schools are slated for development into KPS institutions, with Kannada instruction being introduced in madrasas statewide. "It is vital to elevate the status of the Kannada language, culture, and heritage on a global stage, and we are devising a new policy to support this goal," he added.
The Chief Minister revealed that Karnataka has approximately 3,000 government schools that are over a century old. To enhance education, 800 government schools will be upgraded to Karnataka Public Schools at an estimated cost of Rs 4 crore each, totalling Rs 2,500 crore.
"To integrate minority communities into the mainstream, primary-level Kannada is being taught in 180 madrasas this year, with plans for expansion to 1,500 madrasas throughout the state. Furthermore, Rs 483 crore is allocated for the development of 100 Urdu schools following the KPS model," he announced.
The CM reflected on Karnataka's formation in 1956 and its journey of 69 years as it approaches its 70th year, paying tribute to the martyrs of the unification movement.
Siddaramaiah emphasized that Kannada, with a history exceeding 2,000 years, is recognized as a classical language. "However, the neglect of Kannada in education poses numerous challenges. Children in advanced nations learn and think in their mother tongues, while our reliance on languages like English and Hindi has hindered our children's potential. Thus, we need a law to ensure education in the mother tongue, and the Central Government must take this matter seriously," he stressed.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the implications of Karnataka's push for mother tongue education. This initiative not only aims to preserve cultural heritage but also addresses the challenges posed by globalization and technology. It's a call for inclusivity and recognition of linguistic diversity in India, aligning with the nation's commitment to education and cultural integrity.
NationPress
02/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of Karnataka's proposal for education in mother tongue?
The primary goal is to ensure that education is delivered in the mother tongue, which is believed to enhance learning and preserve cultural identity.
How many schools are set to be transformed into Karnataka Public Schools?
A total of 900 schools, including 800 Kannada-medium and 100 Urdu-medium schools, are being developed into Karnataka Public Schools (KPS).
Is Kannada being taught in madrasas?
Yes, the teaching of Kannada is being prioritized in madrasas, with plans to introduce it in 180 madrasas this year, expanding to 1,500 madrasas in the future.
