Tamil Nadu Launches Two Language Education Policy with Reform Vision

Tamil Nadu:

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin formally launched Tamil Nadu’s much anticipated State Education Policy (SEP) on Friday, 8 August 2025, marking a decisive break from the Central government’s National Education Policy (NEP). The move reinforces the state’s long standing commitment to its own educational vision and linguistic framework.

The policy, prepared by a 14 member expert committee chaired by retired High Court Judge Justice D. Murugesan, took over two years to finalise. It addresses three major areas, Early Childhood Care and Development, school education, and higher education, while keeping Tamil Nadu’s socio cultural and economic priorities in focus.

One of the most notable provisions is the firm rejection of NEP’s three language formula. The SEP will retain the state’s traditional two language system, with Tamil and English as mediums of instruction. Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi explained, “Till 10th standard, students will study Tamil. We are dead against the three language policy in NEP.”

Stalin emphasised that the policy was crafted “keeping in mind the unique character of the state” and aims to encourage critical thinking over rote learning. “Through this education policy, we don’t want students just to mug up, but think and get educated. Physical education will be taught along with studies,” he said. The Chief Minister also reaffirmed that social justice, equality, and rational thought would remain at the core of the education system.

Among the major changes, undergraduate admissions for arts and science courses will be based solely on the consolidated marks of Classes XI and XII, eliminating common entrance examinations. The SEP also rejects public examinations for Classes 3, 5, and 8, calling them regressive and detrimental to inclusive education. The document sets an ambitious target to raise the transition rate from school to higher education from 75 per cent to 100 per cent.

The policy places strong emphasis on expanding science education, integrating Artificial Intelligence into the curriculum, and improving English language proficiency. According to the Chief Minister, these measures are designed to prepare students for competition on international platforms.

The launch of the SEP comes against the backdrop of tensions between the Tamil Nadu government and the Centre. The state has accused the Union government of withholding over ₹2,100 crore in Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan funds, alleging that the denial is linked to Tamil Nadu’s refusal to implement the NEP.

With the unveiling of the SEP, Tamil Nadu has signalled a clear commitment to an education model rooted in regional identity while embracing modern and globally relevant skills. The policy seeks to balance tradition and innovation, ensuring that no student is left behind in the pursuit of quality education.