Hindi is national language, beneficial for effective communication: Chandrababu Naidu
text_fields
Amid the ongoing language debate around Hindi, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu emphasised the importance of learning multiple languages, highlighting Hindi's utility for communication in Delhi and English's global relevance.
Speaking on the issue, Naidu stressed that while one's mother tongue should be given priority, learning additional languages can be beneficial for livelihood and effective communication.
"One should always value their mother tongue, but at the same time, learning Hindi is useful for communication in Delhi. Other languages can be learned for professional opportunities. Hindi is the national language, and English is the international language," he said, underlining the increasing number of Indians working abroad.
However, India does not have a national language, with both Hindi and English serving as official languages.
Naidu also addressed misconceptions about language and knowledge. "Some people think English is equivalent to knowledge. But language is merely a tool for communication. True knowledge is best acquired when studied in one's mother tongue, as it is the easiest to learn," he added.
Naidu's remarks come amid heightened discussions in the southern states over the Centre's language policies, particularly the three-language formula and delimitation. The DMK-led Tamil Nadu government has strongly opposed these policies, arguing that they promote northern dominance in language, culture, and politics.
The central government, however, has defended its position, stating that Hindi is just one of 22 languages under the National Education Policy and is not mandatory. It has also urged states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal to implement the three-language policy without further delay.
Meanwhile, a leader from Naidu's Telugu Desam Party (TDP), which is aligned with the BJP, has drawn attention for offering incentives such as cash rewards and livestock to encourage larger families.