And for a Friday in Thiruvananthapuram, Hindi imposition issues, some thoughts….. some musings…..
Every September 14th passes peacefully as Hindi Diwas across the country, marked by various events to promote usage of Hindi. Most notably, PSUs and Central Govt offices particularly in South India, have subdued but noteworthy Hindi usage celebrations. This year there has been a sudden upheaval and uproar. Based on a parliamentary committee recommendation, Central Govt is considering making Hindi as the medium of instruction in IITs, IIMs, Central Universities in Hindi speaking states and local regional languages in Non-Hindi states, also removing English as a language for recruitment to Central services. Expectedly, southern states have all raised alarms led by MK Stalin, the CM of Tamilnadu as also Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra. It’s a very sensitive issue as South Indians consider imposition of Hindi as language imperialism. Over prominence to Hindi has always been controversial even before India’s independence. Our founding fathers in the constituent assembly in 1948, after much deliberations had come up with a compromise three language formula to assuage all sections of the Indian republic. English and Hindi were both considered official language and no language was declared as National language. 22 regional languages, based on which linguistic states were formed, were all considered equal.
General perception amongst young unemployed youth seeking Central Govt jobs is that, that English language distributes advantages and difficulties evenly amongst Hindi and non-Hindi states. Notwithstanding, in these times of technological advancements, simultaneous translation capabilities and changing job markets based on newer skills and competencies, any controversy of such sensitivities must be avoided at all costs. India is already the fourth largest economy. The growth and opportunities will be spearheaded by the Private Sector and the Entrepreneurial class. As it is, whilst there are millions who are unemployed and underemployed, there is huge scarcity in getting right skilled young people for manufacturing, technical and even skilled labour jobs. The paradox is in every state. The migrants are the best workers. Language is no barrier.
Let’s not complicate issues. The PM has given clear mantras. Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas and less of Government and more of Governance. Let’s just implement these mantras, the honest way, the transparent way, the SEEGOS way.