Controversy Over NEP's Impact on Punjabi Language Sparks Debate

Punjab's Education Minister, Harjot Singh Bains, has raised concerns over the central government's new education policy, alleging that it encroaches on the rights of states and undermines regional languages. Speaking at an education summit, Bains argued that the policy, which places education as a concurrent subject between the Centre and states, tilts power towards the central government, diminishing state authority.

Bains pointed out that Punjabi, though one of the 22 scheduled languages and spoken widely beyond Punjab, was initially listed as an optional subject by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). This decision was later reversed after protests from the Punjab government. The minister criticized the central stance that regional languages are supported under the NEP as inconsistent, given their optional categorization.

The Punjab government plans to introduce its own education policy to protect Punjab's linguistic and cultural interests. Bains also highlighted that crucial issues like mid-day meals and educational advancements were not addressed at the summit, while new-age educational technologies took precedence in the discussions.

(With inputs from agencies.)