The Three-Language Formula in India has sparked intense political and educational debates. However, amidst these discussions, the most important stakeholder—the student—often remains overlooked. This is particularly crucial for government school students, who make up 55% of total school enrollments in Tamil Nadu and lack access to additional tuition or coaching that private school students often enjoy.

Challenges of the Three-Language Policy for Students

1. Is a Third Language Necessary?

Private school students benefit from extra coaching and tuition, whereas government school students often lack such resources.

The key question is: Does learning a third language (instead of two) provide public school students with a competitive edge in jobs and higher education?

2. National Education Policy (NEP) and Ground Realities

The NEP promotes the Three-Language Formula to enhance cognitive abilities, employment opportunities, and national integration.

However, research does not conclusively prove that learning additional languages improves cognitive skills. Instead, a strong foundation in the mother tongue is essential before introducing other languages.

3. Technological Advancements and Language Learning

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and tools like Google Gemini can provide real-time translation, reducing the necessity of mastering multiple languages for knowledge acquisition.

As digital classrooms and smart devices become more accessible, language barriers will further diminish.

Practical Issues with Implementing a Third Language

1. Poor Primary Education Quality

According to the ASER Survey 2024, 88% of third-grade students in Tamil Nadu lack basic literacy skills.

Even though English is taught as a second language, many students struggle in higher education due to weak English proficiency.

2. Shortage of Competent Teachers and Resources

Public schools lack qualified teachers for a third language.

Tamil Nadu, despite having one of the highest per-student education budgets, spends 80-90% on teacher salaries, leaving minimal funds for infrastructure and curriculum improvements.

Hiring additional language teachers could further strain the already limited resources.

3. Cultural and National Integration Aspects

Language is a cultural anchor, but it is not the only means to promote national unity.

Tamil speakers learn Hindi quickly when they join the Indian Army or move for work.

Tamil vendors in Maharashtra fluently speak Marathi to engage with customers, proving that language learning happens naturally when required.

Potential Solutions: A Balanced Approach

1. Make the Third Language Optional

Instead of mandating a third language from primary school, it could be offered as an optional subject from middle school (6th grade).

Initially, this could be implemented in district headquarters schools, with expansion based on demand.

2. Strengthening English Education for Better Opportunities

Since English remains the primary language for central government exams, judiciary, and defense services, Tamil Nadu students must strengthen their English proficiency.

Improving English education will make Tamil Nadu students globally competitive.

3. Focus on 21st-Century Skills

Education should prioritize critical thinking, creativity, and curiosity rather than just knowledge acquisition.

Deep learning should be prioritized over wider learning, ensuring students master essential subjects instead of being burdened with additional languages.

Politics vs. Student Development

1. Political Narrative vs. Student Future

The debate should move beyond Hindi imposition politics and focus on students' future prospects and career development.

As long as English remains a dominant language nationally, Tamil Nadu’s education policies will not harm students' competitiveness.

2. Impact of Hindi’s Growing National Role

If Hindi progressively replaces English at the national level, Tamil Nadu must reassess its language policies.

Ensuring that students can compete both nationally and internationally should be the priority.

Conclusion

The three-language debate should prioritize student welfare over political narratives. As long as public sector and private employment opportunities in Tamil Nadu remain accessible in English, a third language should remain optional. However, offering Hindi as an elective from middle school could provide students with more career flexibility without overburdening the education system.

Keywords:

Three-Language Policy India

National Education Policy 2024

Public vs Private Schools in India

Indian Education System Reforms

Tamil Nadu Education Policy

Hindi vs English in India

Language Learning and Jobs in India

Educational Challenges in India

English Proficiency in India

21st-Century Skills in Education

This balanced approach can spark meaningful discussions on India’s language policy, ensuring student development remains the focus of educational reforms.

By Team Atharva Examwise #atharvaexamwise