Sudha Murty's Multilingual Mission: Can India Bridge the Language Gap?

In the backdrop of the prevailing controversy around the National Education Policy's three-language formula, Rajya Sabha member Sudha Murty has expressed her support for learning in multiple languages. The celebrated author and philanthropist said, "I have always believed that one can learn multiple languages, and I myself know 7-8 languages." Her statement has revived the debate on language education in India.

While Murty highlights the value of studying many languages, the policy has drawn flak from opposition leaders from Tamil Nadu. Congress MP Karti Chidambaram contended that the two-language format of English and Tamil already operating in Tamil Nadu is sufficient to meet the requirements of the state. The policy has resulted in intense debate within Parliament, as Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has come in defense of the policy and waved off accusations of imposition of language.

As the debate rages on, the enforcement of the three-language policy continues to be a controversial topic, which underscores the intricate nexus between language, education, and regional identities in India.

Sources: India Today, The News Minute