• The three-language formula has its roots back in the year 1961 and it was implemented as a result of a consensus during the meeting of various CMs of the Indian states. The Three-Language Formula was supposed to be not a goal or a limiting factor in language acquisition, but rather a convenient launching pad for the exploration of the expanding horizon of knowledge and the emotional integration of the country.

Three language policy :-

• According to the National Education Policy of 1968, the three-language formula means that a third language (apart from Hindi and English), which should belong to Modern India, should be used for education in Hindi-speaking states. In the states where Hindi is not the primary language, regional languages and English, along with Hindi shall be used.
• This formula was altered and amended by Kothari Commission (1964–66) so as to accommodate regional languages and mother tongues of the group identities. Also Hindi and English remained at the two ends of the line.
• The First Languagethat students should study- Mother tongue or the regional language
• The Second Language:-
  • In Hindi-speaking states, this would be English or some other language belonging to Modern India.
  • In Non-Hindi states, this will be English or Hindi
• The Third Language :-
  • In Hindi-speaking states, this would be English or some other language belonging to Modern India, but the one that is not chosen as the second language.
  • In Non-Hindi states, this will be English or some other language belonging to Modern India, but the one that is not chosen as the second language.
• Advantages of this policy :-
  • This policy fulfils the linguistic interests of dominant ethnic communities in India.
  • Significance of regional language
    • Vernacular languages are given preference and students also have the option of easily opting out of learning regional language after class VII or VIII.
  • Disadvantages of this policy:-
    • Though TLF provides scope for mother tongue language education, the emphasis is lost due to varied implementation.
    • Amidst asserting political rights of dominant ethnic groups, this policy fails to protect various mother tongues from becoming extinct.
    • Students have to face increased burden of subjects because of the three language formula. 
    • In some areas, students are forced to learn Sanskrit.
    • Three-language formula has not been implemented in most North Indian States and in states like Tamil Nadu and Tripura.  Only a few states like Karnataka have implemented the three-language formula.  In many North Indian states, two languages or Sanskrit is being taught as a third language instead of another regional language.

Language conundrum in India can be resolved only by making English the link language :-

• On the dawn of independence English was the link language of India. Since the administration , political workers and businessmen and students throughout the country knew English it was the most convenient, the most suitable language to be the link language at that particular point of time.
• English will inevitably remain an important language because of our past association and because of its present importance in the world.
• It is the only language which is understood by the educated people all over the country. English is needed not for operational purposes but also for identifying oneself with those who use the language in India and abroad.
• Disadvantages of making English a link language:-
  • Due to excessive focus on English somewhere there developed a sense that Indian languages are inferior and speaking in English is a status symbol. So vernacular languages got neglected.