So, what is the three language formula? The Three Language Formula is an educational strategy intended to promote multilingual proficiency among students in India. Originally formulated in the 1968 National Policy on Education, it proposes that students learn three languages:

• The regional language (mother tongue or the state language)
• Hindi
• English

This formula was designed to foster national integration and ensure that students across India could communicate in multiple languages, enhancing both cognitive and cultural development.

Historical Background and Origins

The Three Language Formula emerged from the linguistic reorganisation of states and the need to promote Hindi as a national language without undermining the importance of regional languages. It was reiterated in the National Policy on Education 1986 and continued to be a part of educational frameworks, including NEP 2020.

However, its implementation has varied widely. While some states adopted the formula fully, others faced resistance due to regional linguistic pride and political factors. For instance, Tamil Nadu has historically resisted the imposition of Hindi, choosing to focus on Tamil and English instead.

Different Formulas In Different States

In practice, the implementation of the tri-language formula varies:

• Northern States: Typically teach Hindi, English, and one regional language.
• Southern States: Often teach the regional language, English, and Hindi or another regional language.
• Eastern and Western States: Depending on local linguistic demographics, implement a combination of regional languages, Hindi, and English.

This variability ensures that the policy respects regional linguistic identities while promoting multilingualism.

Introducing the mother tongue as a medium of instruction in primary education has numerous benefits:

Improved Learning Outcomes

Students learn better when taught in their mother tongue. Research indicates that children comprehend and retain information more effectively when taught in a language they speak at home. This familiarity with the language boosts their confidence and enables them to grasp complex concepts more easily, leading to better academic performance.

Cultural Preservation

Helps in preserving cultural heritage and linguistic diversity. Teaching in the mother tongue ensures that children remain connected to their cultural roots. It allows them to appreciate their cultural heritage and encourages the use of their native language in daily life. This practice helps in sustaining linguistic diversity and preventing the extinction of less widely spoken languages.

Stronger Foundation

Provides a strong foundation for learning additional languages later. When students are initially taught in their mother tongue, they develop a solid foundation in literacy and numeracy. Once they are proficient in their first language, they find it easier to acquire additional languages. This sequential approach to language learning ensures that students become truly multilingual, with a deep understanding of each language they learn.

Challenges in the Implementation

While the Three Language Formula in India aims to promote linguistic unity, it has faced significant criticism and challenges:

• Implementation Failures: Critics argue that neither Hindi-speaking nor non-Hindi-speaking states have fully embraced the policy as intended. The reluctance to implement the formula uniformly across the country has led to inconsistencies and gaps in language education.
• Cognitive Burden: Requiring young children to learn three different scripts and languages can be overwhelming, potentially hindering their learning process. Some educators believe that the added burden of mastering multiple languages at an early age can detract from the focus on core subjects and overall academic performance.
• Local Language as Medium of Instruction: The formula often conflicts with recommendations to use the local or home language as the primary medium of instruction in early education. This discrepancy has sparked debates on the best approach to language education, with some arguing that starting with the mother tongue provides a more solid educational foundation.

LEAD Group’s online integrated management solution empowers Indian schools to deliver top-notch quality learning and teaching experiences — online, offline, or hybrid — while staying in line with the government’s vision outlined in the new policy. Let’s look at LEAD Group’s highly innovative tech-based solutions that can help your school effectively implement the three-language formula outlined in the NEP 2020.

Partnership with Schools

LEAD Group partners with schools to transform them by following NEP guidelines. This collaboration ensures that schools have the necessary resources and support to implement multilingual education effectively. LEAD’s curriculum is already aligned with NEP standards, focusing on holistic development, critical thinking, and multilingual education. With the NEP guidelines now in place, the adoption of LEAD’s curriculum will get a boost as schools transition from traditional textbooks to NEP-aligned curriculum. This ensures that students receive a modern, effective education that prepares them for future challenges.

Teacher Training Programs 

Provides proper training to teachers for effective multilingual education. LEAD Group conducts specialised training programs to equip teachers with the skills and methodologies needed to teach multiple languages efficiently.

Curriculum Guidelines

Adheres to curriculum guidelines as per the National Curriculum Framework (NCF). By aligning with national standards, LEAD Group ensures that the curriculum is comprehensive, inclusive, and conducive to multilingual learning.