Chennai, April 4 (NationPress) Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan fiercely criticized Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Saturday regarding the contentious three-language policy of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, alleging that he is distorting the reform for political advantage.

In a forthright statement, Pradhan dismissed Stalin’s accusations of “Hindi imposition,” labeling them as a “stale narrative” designed to divert attention from governance shortcomings. He emphasized that the NEP encourages linguistic liberty rather than compulsion, highlighting that the policy focuses on education in students’ mother tongue to enhance learning outcomes.

“The characterization of NEP as a mandatory Hindi policy is deceptive,” Pradhan asserted, underscoring that multilingualism should be embraced as a strength rather than a hindrance. He contended that enhancing students' linguistic capabilities in a globalized environment would fortify, not undermine, Tamil language and culture.

Pradhan pointed out the central government’s efforts to promote Tamil language and heritage through various platforms, including significant events like the Kashi Tamil Sangamam.

He also mentioned structural reforms under the NEP, such as teacher training initiatives, the enhancement of educational institutions via District Institutes of Education and Training (DIETs), and national frameworks including the National Professional Standards for Teachers (NPST) and the National Mission for Mentoring (NMM).

Furthermore, Pradhan accused the DMK government of hindering vital educational initiatives within the state, claiming that Tamil Nadu has delayed the rollout of PM SHRI schools by refusing to sign the necessary memorandum of understanding, despite previous promises.

He also highlighted the situation regarding Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas, noting that despite directives from the Supreme Court, the state government continues to resist their establishment. He stated that this has deprived underprivileged students of opportunities for quality residential education and modern facilities.

Dismissing worries about financial limitations as a “facade,” Pradhan insisted that the Centre remains devoted to funding, teacher training, and institutional enhancement. He accused the state government of prioritizing “divisive politics” over educational advancement.

In a call for collaboration, Pradhan urged the Tamil Nadu government to transcend political posturing and join what he described as a national mission to empower Indian languages while improving educational prospects for students.