Punjab Government Enforces Punjabi as a Mandatory Subject in Schools
In response to CBSE’s new exam pattern, which allegedly diminishes the role of regional languages, the Punjab government has made Punjabi a compulsory main subject in all schools across the state, regardless of their educational board affiliation. The state issued a notification stating that education certificates will be invalid without Punjabi as a main subject.
The decision came after Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains strongly objected to CBSE’s policy, calling it a “deliberate attempt to erase Punjabi from the education system.”
CBSE Issues Clarification Amid Punjab’s Strong Opposition
Addressing a press conference at Punjab Bhawan, Bains emphasized that Punjabi is not just a language but a symbol of cultural identity. He highlighted that Punjabi is spoken widely beyond Punjab’s borders and deserves equal representation in education.
“This is not just a state issue; it is a matter of national importance. Marginalizing regional languages is a direct attack on India’s linguistic diversity and federal structure,” Bains stated.
He also announced plans to write to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, demanding accountability for the exclusion of Punjabi in a draft education policy.
Punjab Takes Strict Action Against Schools Violating Language Mandate
Reinforcing its commitment, the Punjab government fined Amity International School in Mohali ₹50,000 for violating the Punjab Learning of Punjabi and Other Languages Act, 2008. The District Education Officer (Secondary) found that the school failed to implement Punjabi as a compulsory subject. Two schools in Jalandhar were also penalized.
“We cannot allow this blatant disregard for linguistic diversity. CBSE must respect the federal structure and give regional languages, including Punjabi, the prominence they deserve,” Bains asserted.
Punjab Plans Its Own Education Policy
To further strengthen the education system, Bains revealed that Punjab will soon introduce its own education policy. A committee of experts will be formed to draft the framework, ensuring that Punjabi remains an integral part of the curriculum.
With this firm stance, Punjab has set a precedent in defending regional languages, reinforcing its cultural identity while challenging CBSE’s centralization efforts.
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