RANCHI, Jharkhand – Jharkhand Minister Sudivya Kumar called for the inclusion of four regional languages into primary education programs, expanding the state’s existing multilingual initiative. Kumar made the announcement while inaugurating a National Multilingual Education Conclave in Ranchi on Wednesday, emphasizing the move would strengthen foundational learning and preserve local languages.
Addressing Linguistic Diversity
Minister Kumar, who oversees higher and technical education, highlighted Jharkhand’s rich linguistic landscape. He noted the state has five major tribal languages and four distinct regional languages. Kumar stressed that a single language cannot effectively connect all 24 districts of Jharkhand, advocating for a diverse approach to education.
The five tribal languages are Kurukh , Santhali , Mundari , Ho , and Kharia . The four regional languages include Khortha , Nagpuri , Panchpargania , and Kurmali .
The PALASH Initiative
The Jharkhand Education Project Council (JEPC) currently implements the Promotion of Appropriate Language and Academic Skills for Holistic Education (PALASH) project. This initiative aims to deliver early education to children in their mother tongue, aligning with National Education Policy (NEP) provisions. PALASH has already integrated the five tribal languages into primary education curricula.
JEPC State Project Director Shashi Ranjan stated that research shows teaching children in their mother tongue improves learning outcomes and boosts confidence. The PALASH project initially launched in five districts and expanded to eight districts for the 2024-25 academic year. Currently, 1,041 schools across these eight districts provide multilingual education using specialized textbooks and materials.
Expanding Regional Language Access
Minister Kumar specifically requested Chief Minister Hemant Soren to incorporate the four regional languages – Khortha, Nagpuri, Panchpargania, and Kurmali – into the PALASH initiative. Kumar argued that without this expansion, the vision for a developed Jharkhand remains incomplete. He underscored the importance of ensuring these languages are taught and conserved at the primary level.
Kumar asserted that foundational education must be holistic, simple, and practical. He warned that failing to provide such an approach would lead to superficial learning, rather than building citizens with independent knowledge and intellect.
National Conclave on Multilingual Education
The two-day National Multilingual Education Conclave, inaugurated by Minister Kumar, focuses on discussing challenges in providing multilingual education to schoolchildren. This aligns with the provisions of the National Education Policy. Representatives from seven other states joined the Ranchi event, including Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, and Rajasthan. The conclave serves as a platform to share insights and find solutions for effective language-based learning.