Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Thursday launched the State Education Policy (SEP), asserting that it reflects the “unique character” of the state and firmly reiterating the government’s commitment to the two-language policy, in defiance of the Centre’s National Education Policy (NEP).
Speaking at the Anna Centenary Library Auditorium, Stalin said the policy aims to move away from rote learning and instead foster critical thinking. “We want students to think and learn. Physical education will be taught alongside academics. Importantly, we will follow the two-language policy—it is our firm and unchanging stand,” he declared.
The Chief Minister announced the introduction of smart classes and emphasised that the SEP is rooted in rationality and equality. “We will never let education be stopped or reactionary ideas seep into it. Our policy will promote samathuva kalvi (equal education) and pagutharivu kalvi (rational education), enabling students to compete at global standards,” he said.
Stalin outlined the government’s goal of ensuring 100% school-to-higher education transition, up from the current 75%. “This year, 901 students have secured admission in premier institutions. We aim for every school student to enter higher education,” he added.
The policy’s release follows months of protests by the DMK-led government against the NEP, which it has labelled “against social justice” and a means to impose Hindi on the state. Tamil Nadu has categorically refused to implement the NEP.
In May, the state government moved the Supreme Court alleging the Centre withheld around ₹2,200 crore in funds due to its rejection of the NEP. The petition seeks a declaration that neither the NEP 2020 nor the PM SHRI Schools Scheme is binding on the state without its consent.
