Mother Tongue as a Tool for Foundational Literacy under National Education Policy 2020

The National Education Policy 2020 emphasizes the central role of the mother tongue in building strong foundations of literacy and learning, particularly in the early years of schooling. Recognizing that language is not merely a medium of communication but also a carrier of culture, identity, and cognition, NEP 2020 advocates for the use of the mother tongue or regional language as the medium of instruction at least until Grade 5, and preferably till Grade 8. This approach aligns with global research which highlights that children learn best when taught in a language they understand, as it enhances comprehension, creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression. The policy underscores that foundational literacy and numeracy, being the bedrock of education, can be most effectively achieved when children are introduced to reading and writing in their home language, which minimizes cognitive load and bridges the gap between home and school environments. Moreover, using the mother tongue promotes inclusivity by reducing barriers for students from diverse linguistic and socio-economic backgrounds, thereby democratizing access to quality education. NEP 2020 also stresses the importance of multilingualism, encouraging a transition from the mother tongue to other Indian and global languages in later stages, thus ensuring both rootedness and global competency. Hence, the mother tongue emerges not only as a pedagogical tool but also as a powerful enabler of equitable and holistic education envisioned by NEP 2020.