Three Language Formula in National Education Policy, 2020 of India: From the Stakeholder’s Perspectives

Abstract

Odisha has more than twenty tribal languages and imparting education to these children has had several challenges which have resulted in severe school dropouts. The study attempts to find out the possible outcomes of the language policy from the NEP 2020 of India. The researchers surveyed teachers and parents and conducted interviews with a much-acclaimed language expert from Odisha besides classroom observations. The finding summarizes that mother tongue education plays a significant role in the early childhood learning experience and subjects like Math and Science can be better understood in the mother language. The study found real issues and challenges in the implementation of Three Language Formulas, particularly in tribal-populated regions of the state. The problem of teacher inadequacy and lack of proper training may pose serious hindrances in the implementation of the language policy as envisaged by the NEP 2020. The study also found the status of English in the education system in India as the majority of the parents said that they would like their wards to take up English as their third or second language.