Author: Dr. Ratan Kumar Das
DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.70798/Bijmrd/03010019
Abstract: After a long debate and controversies on Mother Tongue (MT) usage, The Ministry of Education has finally approved its NEP 2020 last year that emphasizes students’ mother tongue as the medium of instruction even as it sticks to ‘three-language formula’. It also ensured that no language would be imposed on any state. The NEP document states that “The medium of instruction, wherever reckon, until at least Grade 5, but preferably till Grade 8 and beyond, will be the MT or native or home language, or the regional language. Subsequently, the MT or local language shall continue to be taught as a language wherever possible. This will be followed by both public and private schools.” It also mentions that since children acquire and grasp substantial and vital concepts more rapidly in their native language, which is often the MT, it should preferably be the medium of instruction in teaching.
This article addresses the controversy that revolves around the pedagogical appropriateness of teacher usage of students’ mother tongue in classroom teaching. It voyages through the mother tongue definition, its learning, importance, development, provisions given in NEP 2020, and a few recommendations before it reaches its destination.
Keywords: NEP 2020, Mother Tongue, Classroom Teaching.
Page No: 176-181