VP Dhankhar urges unity on language, NEP

Puducherry

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Tuesday called for national unity on the issue of languages, urging citizens to prioritize the future of the country over divisive debates. Speaking at Pondicherry University, where he serves as Chancellor, Dhankhar emphasized that India, an aspirational and rapidly developing nation, cannot afford to be fragmented over linguistic identities.

“India is the most aspirational nation in the world today due to remarkable progress in the last decade. How can we be divided over languages?” he asked, adding that no other country possesses the linguistic richness of India. He cited Sanskrit, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Odia, Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Bengali, and Assamese as classical languages with cultural and historical significance.

“Our languages signify inclusivity. In Parliament, members can speak in 22 languages, reflecting our unity in diversity. Sanatan dharma teaches us togetherness for a higher purpose,” he said. Dhankhar urged citizens to reflect, soul search, and appreciate India’s accomplishments while focusing on its collective future.

The Vice President also made a strong appeal for the full implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, calling it a transformative “game changer” for the country’s education system. He urged states yet to adopt the policy to implement it fully and those already implementing it to ensure students understand its benefits through workshops and awareness campaigns. He stressed that the NEP offers students greater flexibility, multi-disciplinary opportunities, and optimal time use, enabling them to unlock their full potential. He also warned political leadership against confrontation and disruption, citing constitutional values.