Three Language Formula in India : The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 language policy

 Students in Classes 6-8 will study three languages

Students have to learn three languages, with at least two being Indian. The Three Language Formula(TLF), also known as the 3 language policy, initially proposed in the 1968 National Policy on Education and reiterated in subsequent policies, including the NEP 2020, aims to balance linguistic diversity with national unity.

The three-language formula will continue to be implemented while keeping in mind the Constitutional provisions, aspirations of the people, regions, and the Union, and the need to promote multilingualism as well as promote national unity. However, there will be a greater flexibility in the three-language formula, and no language will be imposed on any State. The three languages learned by children will be the choices of States, regions, and of course the students themselves, so long as at least two of the three languages are native to India. In particular, students who wish to change one or more of the three languages they are studying may do so in Grade 6 or 7, as long as they are able to demonstrate basic proficiency in three languages (including one language of India at the literature level) by the end of secondary school.

Key Aspects of the Three-Language Formula(TLF) in NEP 2020:

• Language Selection: Students must study three languages. At least two of the three languages must be native to India.
• Flexibility: There is no imposition of any language (including Hindi) on any state. States, regions, and students can choose the languages, allowing for regional diversity.
• Medium of Instruction: The policy strongly recommends that the medium of instruction until at least Grade 5 (preferably Grade 8 and beyond) should be the home language, mother tongue, local language, or regional language.
• Implementation: The formula is designed to foster multilingualism and cultural understanding from an early age. It applies to both public and private schools.
• Third Language Option: The third language can be a classical language (e.g., Sanskrit, Tamil) or, in some contexts, a foreign language.
• Focus on Proficiency: The goal is to develop proficiency in three languages, with the ability to switch or choose languages in Grade 6 or 7.

Objectives and Rationale:

• Multilingualism: Research cited in the policy indicates that children pick up languages quickly between ages 2 and 8, and multilingualism has significant cognitive benefits.
• Cultural Preservation: It aims to preserve regional languages and cultural diversity.
• National Unity: By encouraging the learning of different Indian languages, it aims to promote national integration.

Different Implementations of the 3 Language Policy Across States

In practice, the implementation of the tri-language formula varies:

• Northern States: Typically teach Hindi, English, and one regional language.
• Southern States: Often teach the regional language, English, and Hindi or another regional language.
• Eastern and Western States: Depending on local linguistic demographics, implement a combination of regional languages, Hindi, and English.

This variability ensures that the policy respects regional linguistic identities while promoting multilingualism.

Though fraught with challenges, the Three Language Formula remains a cornerstone of India’s educational policy aimed at promoting multilingualism and cultural integration. LEAD Group is at the forefront of this transformation, ensuring effective implementation and positive student outcomes. 

The importance of multilingual education cannot be overstated, as it fosters cognitive development, cultural understanding, and national unity. Let’s embrace this opportunity to enrich our children’s learning experiences and help them become well-rounded, globally aware individuals.