In a decisive move to preserve and promote its linguistic heritage, the Punjab government has mandated the teaching of Punjabi as a compulsory subject for all students from Class I to X across the state. This directive applies uniformly to all educational institutions, including private schools and those affiliated with central boards such as CBSE and ICSE. The government’s commitment to this initiative is underscored by stringent penalties for non-compliance, reflecting its dedication to upholding the cultural and linguistic identity of Punjab.
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Strengthening the 2008 Language Act
The foundation for this mandate was laid with the enactment of the Punjab Learning of Punjabi and Other Languages Act in 2008. This Act aimed to ensure that Punjabi was taught as a compulsory subject in schools across the state. However, over the years, challenges in enforcement necessitated a more robust approach. In response, the Punjab Cabinet approved amendments to the Act in November 2021, significantly enhancing the penalties for schools that failed to implement Punjabi as a compulsory subject. The revised penalties were set at Rs 50,000 for the first month of non-compliance, Rs 1 lakh for the second month, and Rs 2 lakh for the third month and beyond.
Recent Reinforcement Amidst National Educational Changes
The urgency to reinforce this mandate was amplified in February 2025 when the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) introduced a new exam pattern that seemingly marginalized regional languages, including Punjabi. This development was perceived by the Punjab government as a deliberate attempt to undermine the state’s linguistic heritage. In a swift and assertive response, the state government issued a notification on February 26, 2025, reiterating the compulsory status of Punjabi in all schools, irrespective of their affiliating boards. The notification emphasized that educational certificates would be deemed null and void if Punjabi was not included as a main subject in the curriculum.
Statewide Implementation and Compliance Measures
To ensure uniformity and compliance, the mandate encompasses all educational institutions within Punjab’s jurisdiction. This includes central schools, Navodaya schools, and institutions affiliated with CBSE and ICSE. The government’s directive is clear: any deviation from incorporating Punjabi as a compulsory subject will attract substantial financial penalties, and persistent non-compliance could lead to the revocation of the school’s recognition. This stringent stance underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to preserving the Punjabi language and ensuring its transmission to future generations.
Broader Cultural and Educational Implications
The mandate to teach Punjabi is not merely an administrative directive but a profound affirmation of the state’s cultural identity. By integrating Punjabi into the core curriculum, the government aims to foster a deep-rooted connection among students to their linguistic and cultural heritage. This initiative is expected to instill a sense of pride and belonging, ensuring that the language thrives amidst the diverse linguistic landscape of India.
Challenges and the Path Forward
While the government’s directive is clear, its successful implementation hinges on several factors. Schools need to adapt their curricula, develop appropriate teaching materials, and ensure that qualified teachers are available to deliver quality education in Punjabi. Additionally, there may be resistance from certain institutions, especially those affiliated with central boards, necessitating continuous monitoring and enforcement by the state education department.
To address these challenges, the Punjab government has expressed its intention to develop a state-specific education policy. This policy aims to align educational objectives with the state’s cultural and linguistic priorities, ensuring that regional languages receive their due prominence in the academic framework. A committee of experts is expected to be constituted to draft this policy, reflecting a collaborative approach to educational reform.
The Punjab government’s mandate to make Punjabi a compulsory subject in schools is a landmark decision aimed at preserving and promoting the state’s rich linguistic heritage. By enforcing this directive across all educational institutions and introducing stringent penalties for non-compliance, the government has demonstrated its commitment to cultural preservation. As the state moves forward, the successful integration of Punjabi into the educational system will serve as a testament to the resilience of regional languages in India’s diverse cultural tapestry.
By – Jyothi
