Context:

• The Haryana government has recently made a landmark decision in the education sector by implementing the three-language formula for students in Classes IX and X, in alignment with the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Key Points:

•  This initiative, set to take effect from the 2025-26 academic session, positions Haryana as the first state in India to adopt this framework under the NEP 2020.
• Under the new policy, English and Hindi will be compulsory subjects for all students. For the third language, students will have the option to choose between Sanskrit, Punjabi, or Urdu. This decision reflects a commitment to fostering multilingualism and cultural diversity in education, which is a core tenet of the NEP 2020.
• The introduction of this subject combination will begin with Class IX in the 2025-26 academic session and will extend to Class X in the following academic year (2026-27). Core subjects such as Mathematics, Science, and Social Science will remain mandatory, while students will also have the option to select vocational subjects, including music, drawing, and physical education.

Objectives of the Three-Language Formula

The three-language formula aims to achieve several key objectives:

• Promoting multilingual proficiency: By including regional languages like Punjabi and Urdu alongside Sanskrit, the policy fosters inclusivity and cultural preservation. This approach not only enhances students' linguistic skills but also promotes a deeper understanding of their cultural heritage.
   
• Enhancing cognitive skills: Research indicates that multilingual education can enhance cognitive abilities, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Proficiency in multiple languages opens up global opportunities for students, making them more competitive in the job market.
   
• Aligning with NEP 2020: The policy aligns with the NEP 2020's vision of promoting multilingualism as a foundational element of education. The NEP emphasizes that two of the three languages must be Indian languages, thereby reinforcing the importance of regional languages in the educational framework.