Wrong Lesson Plan
(Source: Editorial Page, The Indian Express)
| Topic: GS2: Issues Relating to Development and Management of Education |
| Context |
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Objective of the Policy
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Improve foundational learning by teaching in home languages.
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Promote cultural inclusivity and reduce early dropout rates.
Concerns Raised
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Priority Mismatch: Diverts focus from urgent needs like teacher training, numeracy skills, and digital learning.
Logistical Challenges:
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Shortage of trained multilingual teachers.
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Difficulty in urban, linguistically diverse classrooms.
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Need for textbooks in multiple languages.
Also Read: The Indian Express Editorial 28 May 2025
Equity Issues
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May marginalize migrant and inter-state children.
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Could increase regional educational disparities.
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Homogenous linguistic grouping may harm inclusivity and integration.
International Experience
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Mixed results from Philippines and South Africa.
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Indian context far more linguistically fragmented.
Conclusion/Way Forward
- Strengthen core competencies (reading, writing, numeracy) first.
- Pilot multilingual education in select areas before national scale-up.
- Use technology and transitional bilingual tools to support learning.
| Practice Question:
“The push for mother-tongue instruction in early education is well-intentioned but lacks contextual viability in India.” Critically examine. |
