President Droupadi Murmu on Monday batted for teaching in mother tongue in schools, saying talent development in science, literature and social sciences can be more effective if taught in one’s own language. She recalled the contribution of her school teachers due to which she became the first girl from her village to go to college.
She was addressing the gathering at the National Teachers Awards ceremony.
“Science, research and innovation are the basis of development in today’s knowledge economy. The foundation stone for further strengthening India’s position in these areas will be built through school education. I believe development of original talent in science, literature, or the social sciences can be more effective through the mother tongue,” she said.
“It is our mothers who teach us the art of living in our early lives. That is why mother tongue is helpful in developing natural talent. After the mother, the teachers carry forward our education in our lives. If teachers also teach in their mother tongue, then students can develop their talent with ease. That is why in the new National Education Policy (NEP), emphasis has been laid on use of Indian languages for school education and higher education,” Murmu added.
The president remembered her teachers and said they not only taught her but also gave her love and inspiration. “On the strength of the guidance of my family and teachers, I became the first girl from my village to attend college. I always feel indebted to my teachers for whatever I have achieved in life,” she said.