The Three-Language Formula was supposed to be not a goal or a limiting factor in language acquisition, but rather a convenient launching pad for the exploration of the expanding horizon of knowledge and the emotional integration of the country.
Three language policy:
According to the National Education Policy of 1968, the three-language formula means that a third language (apart from Hindi and English),
- which should belong to Modern India,
- should be used for education in Hindi-speaking states.
- In the states where Hindi is not the primary language, regional languages and English, along with Hindi shall be used.
This formula was altered and amended by Kothari Commission (1964–66) so as to accommodate regional languages and mother tongues of the group identities.
- The First Language that students should study- Mother tongue or the regional language
- The Second Language:
- In Hindi-speaking states, this would be English or some other language belonging to Modern India.
- In Non-Hindi states, this will be English or Hindi.
- The Third Language:
- In Hindi-speaking states, this would be English or some other language belonging to Modern India, but the one that is not chosen as the second language.
- In Non-Hindi states, this will be English or some other language belonging to Modern India, but the one that is not chosen as the second language.
However, the three language policy has the following cons:
- Though TLF provides scope for mother tongue language education, the emphasis is lost due to varied implementation.
- Amidst asserting political rights of dominant ethnic groups, this policy fails to protect various mother tongues from becoming extinct.
- Students have to face increased burden of subjects because of the three language formula.
- In some areas, students are forced to learn Sanskrit.
- Hindi is the language of less than 44% Indians and mother tongue of only little over 25% people in India.
Language conundrum in India can be resolved only by making English the link language:
- It is the common language through which non Hindi speaking and Hindi speaking people converse so removing this link would lead to imposition of Hindi over the other states.
- English is a global language and Indians have been very efficient in using it be it call centres, IT sector. Pushing English away would only complicate the employment status of these people in India.
- Some of the languages spoken in India are much older than Hindi and are seen as symbol of its rich culture and heritage. Hence imposition of Hindi on such people would be met with resistance.
- English can act as a link language without endangering the sentiments of any state.
However English also has its own constraints because:
- Parents prefer English medium schools over vernacular language schools.
- In the modern Indian society speaking English is equated with higher status which means people who speak English are superior than one speaking mother tongue
- Quality of English education in rural areas is not very good and so it becomes difficult for the children there to compete with urban area students.
Way forward:
- Language is primarily a utilitarian tool.
- While acquisition of additional tools can indeed be beneficial, compulsory learning should be limited to one’s mother tongue.
- Besides, English, as the language that provides access to global knowledge and as a link language within India, could be a supportive language.
UPSC CSE Notes 