NEWS

• Tamil Nadu unveiled its first comprehensive State Education Policy (SEP), departing from the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
• The 230-page policy was drafted by a 14-member panel chaired by former Delhi HC Chief Justice D. Murugesan.

HIGHLIGHTS

Key Provisions of Tamil Nadu’s SEP

• Two-Language Formula: Retains Tamil and English, rejecting NEP’s three-language policy which mandates Hindi in non-Hindi speaking states.
• Class 11 Board Exams Removed: Reverses AIADMK’s 2017 decision; aimed at reducing student stress.
• Social Equity Focus: Special provisions for SCs, STs, minorities, first-generation learners, and children with special needs—through inclusive curriculum, scholarships, and barrier-free infrastructure.
• Holistic Development Goals: Emphasis on foundational literacy, curriculum reform, teacher training, safe schools, digital learning, and sustainable infrastructure.
• Ennum Ezhuthum Mission: Continues as the state’s flagship literacy programme.

Significance  

• Tamil Nadu becomes the first state to formally reject NEP and adopt its own policy, seen as both educationally and politically significant.
• Resistance stems from NEP’s perceived Hindi imposition and centralisation in a concurrent subject (education).
• NEP is advisory, not mandatory; states can legislate their own education policies.