Choice should guide language policy for schools
What, however, stands apart in this focussed push to improve educational standards is the government's language policy. Tamil Nadu has argued for a two-language formula, fearing that the Centre's backing for a three-language policy is merely a camouflage for Hindi imposition. Linguistic pride has been central to Tamil identity, and the Dravidian parties have historically been vigilant against attempts to privilege Hindi over other Indian languages. That said, the state needs to ask if it should reformulate its stand to offer more choices to its students. No language should be imposed on students; neither should a government limit the linguistic options available to students. And science, not political rhetoric and pride, must guide language policy. A rational policy could opt for a three-language policy — evidence suggests that children are quick to learn languages early. In the case of Tamil Nadu, the third language need not necessarily be Hindi; a bouquet of options, including other Dravidian languages and foreign languages, could be offered. A more liberal language policy will make Tamil Nadu's progressive education policy even better.
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