On Saturday, the Union education ministry unveiled 52 concise textbooks in Indian non-scheduled languages, such as Tribal languages, designed for early childhood care and education (ECCE), with the objective of granting young learners the opportunity to receive education in their native tongue.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated the primers, concise books aimed at introducing subjects to students, which were developed by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) in collaboration with the Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL), Mysuru. The term “Non-Scheduled Languages” refers to all languages spoken in India that have not received official recognition.
Pradhan stated, “The 52 primers in Indian languages mark the beginning of a new civilizational renaissance. These initiatives will establish a seamless and forward-thinking learning environment, promote education in Indian languages, realize the vision of NEP 2020, and comprehensively transform school education.”
This initiative aligns with the government’s endeavors to promote Indian languages in education across all levels, as outlined in NEP 2020.
According to the ministry, “The primers will set off an inspirational journey for young minds, facilitating deeper understanding, lifelong learning, greater familiarity with indigenous culture, and enhanced academic success and beyond.”
Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of School Education, emphasized NEP 2020’s recommendation to achieve a Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) of 100% at the secondary level by 2030, stating, “The department is dedicated to achieving that goal. The new textbooks cover Classes 3-12, with some already developed and the rest to be released soon. The development of the 52 Primers followed Shri Pradhan’s suggestions.”
The minister also unveiled various other initiatives, including the establishment of District Institutes of Education & Training (DIET) of Excellence, National Professional Standards for Teachers, National Mission for Mentoring, National Vidya Samiksha Kendra, and 200 TV Channels, aimed at empowering teachers and learners and making quality education more inclusive, innovative, and equitable.
The ministry added, “Financial support will be extended to States/UTs for the physical enhancement of all District Institutes of Education and Training (DIETs) to transform them into DIETs of Excellence nationwide in a phased manner over the next five years, with each DIET receiving up to Rs. 15 Crore under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Samagra Shiksha.”
