Chennai, May 19: The Tamil Nadu government has reiterated its commitment to the state’s two-language policy, firmly rejecting any shift towards the three-language formula amid ongoing pressure from the Centre, signalling a continued stand on language and education policy.
School Education Minister Rajmohan said the Tamil and English framework would remain unchanged under the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government led by Chief Minister Joseph Vijay, describing the policy as central to the state’s educational and cultural approach.
The statement came after the minister’s first review meeting with senior officials of the School Education Department, where he made it clear that the administration would not dilute its position. He said the two-language system was not only a policy choice but a reflection of the government’s ideological commitment.
Rajmohan stated that Tamil would continue as the primary language within the state, while English would remain essential for communication beyond it. He asserted that the government would not yield to what he described as indirect pressure to alter the policy framework.
The development assumes significance against the backdrop of the Union government’s push for implementing the three-language formula through initiatives such as the PM Schools for Rising India scheme. Responding to queries on the matter, the minister said Tamil Nadu would first assess whether the conditions attached to such programmes align with the state’s educational priorities before taking a decision on participation.
He also raised concerns over the delay in central funding, stating that allocations under the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan had not been received for the past two years. He described the situation as detrimental to students and the broader education sector, emphasising that such funds are intended for beneficiaries rather than administrative processes.
Reaffirming the state’s position, Rajmohan said the two-language framework has long been integral to Tamil Nadu’s education system, balancing the preservation of linguistic identity with the need to equip students for global opportunities. He added that the policy supports both cultural continuity and practical advancement.
Drawing an international comparison, the minister referred to Lee Kuan Yew, noting that Singapore’s global integration was facilitated through the use of English as a link language. He said Tamil Nadu’s approach similarly seeks to retain its linguistic heritage while enabling students to engage with the wider world.
The minister also reiterated that the broader ideology of the TVK government includes a focus on women’s rights and protection of regional identity, which he said are reflected in policy decisions across sectors.
The state’s latest position reinforces a long-standing debate over language policy in education, particularly the balance between regional identity and national frameworks. As discussions continue around centrally sponsored schemes and funding mechanisms, Tamil Nadu’s stance indicates that language policy will remain a key point of divergence in Centre-state relations.
