Promoting Moral Literacy in the Foundational Stage under NEP 2020 with the Sherdukpen Folktale Ha Sat Sat-Dong Sat Sat as an English Textbook Lesson

This paper examines the integration of Sherdukpen folklore into English language teaching, as envisioned by India's National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, at the Foundational Stage. Specifically, it analyses how the Sherdukpen folktale Ha Sat Sat Dong Sat Sat can be used to nurture LSRW (Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing) skills alongside moral reasoning. The folktale is examined as a culturally grounded resource for engaging students, developing linguistic competencies, and instilling values like empathy, diligence, and accountability. A lesson design based on the tale is proposed, featuring structured activities that align with the emphasis on holistic, value-based moral education outlined in NEP 2020. Keywords: Sherdukpen folklore; National Education Policy 2020; moral education; LSRW skills