Dharmendra Pradhan Responds to TN CM Stalin’s Criticism of NEP

By A Staff Reporter

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has responded to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin's accusations that the Centre is withholding funds from top-performing states under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme for refusing to implement the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

In his reply, Pradhan emphasized the importance of unity in the nation’s democratic processes. "Healthy competition amongst the states is always welcome in a democracy. However, pitting states against each other to make a point, goes against the spirit of the Constitution and the value of a unified India," Pradhan remarked.

He defended NEP 2020, highlighting that it was formulated through extensive consultations and reflects the collective wisdom of the Indian people. Addressing CM Stalin's concerns, Pradhan asked, "Are you opposing education in mother tongue including Tamil? Are you opposing the conduct of exams in Indian languages including Tamil?"

Pradhan’s response reflects the government's stance on the inclusivity of Indian languages, especially in education, and underscores that the NEP aims to strengthen regional languages rather than marginalize them. The exchange comes amidst ongoing debates between state governments and the Centre over the implementation of the NEP.