**Title:** Nara Lokesh Supports NEP’s Three-Language Formula Amid Tamil Nadu Concerns
**Meta Description:** Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh defends the NEP’s three-language policy, emphasizing choice in language learning and reaffirming TDP’s support for NDA.
**URL Slug:** nara-lokesh-nep-three-language-policy
**Headline:** Nara Lokesh Defends National Education Policy’s Three-Language Formula at South Conclave 2025
At the India Today South Conclave 2025, Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh addressed concerns regarding the National Education Policy’s (NEP) three-language formula, particularly from Tamil Nadu, which has expressed opposition, viewing it as an imposition of Hindi. Lokesh clarified that the NEP encourages the learning of three languages but does not mandate Hindi as the compulsory third language.
During his discussion, Lokesh recounted a meeting with Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who emphasized the importance of using the mother tongue as the medium of instruction. “As an Indian, I understand the significance of the mother tongue, and I also recognize the value of learning Hindi,” he stated.
Drawing from his personal experience, Lokesh shared, “I am a product of three languages, and my son is too. Nowadays, our children are learning up to five languages, including German and Japanese, to prepare for global opportunities.”
When asked about Tamil Nadu’s consistent rejection of the NEP, Lokesh asserted that individuals should have the freedom to choose their preferred language for learning. “No one is suggesting that the third language must be Hindi,” he clarified.
In response to whether northern states should learn southern languages, Lokesh replied, “Why not? In Andhra Pradesh, especially in border areas, the medium of instruction includes languages like Odia, Tamil, and Kannada. Children should learn based on their interests rather than political decisions.”
In addition to his remarks on education, Lokesh reaffirmed the Telugu Desam Party’s (TDP) unwavering support for the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). He announced that TDP will back the NDA’s candidate, CP Radhakrishnan, in the upcoming Vice-Presidential elections. “TDP has joined the NDA and continues to support it unconditionally. We believe in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership,” he stated.
Highlighting the opposition INDIA bloc’s candidate, B Sudershan Reddy, who is from Andhra Pradesh, Lokesh emphasized TDP’s guiding principle of “Bharat First,” which connects regional pride with a national vision. He reiterated that TDP’s alliance with the NDA extends beyond the 2029 elections, positioning the party as a vital regional ally committed to national leadership while preserving Telugu identity.
**FAQ Section:**
**Q: What is the three-language formula in the National Education Policy?**
A: The three-language formula encourages students to learn three languages, promoting linguistic diversity, but does not mandate Hindi as the third language.
