By Dr. R. B. Chaudhary*

Eight months after the Justice Murugesan committee submitted its State Education Policy (SEP), Tamil Nadu remains shrouded in uncertainty regarding its implementation. This delay stands in stark contrast to the rapid adoption of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 by state-run universities, driven by fears of funding cuts from the Union Ministry of Education.

The central government's recent withholding of over ₹570 crore under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) for non-compliance with NEP underscores the pressure being exerted on states. Furthermore, the Union Ministry's development of a new evaluation system for Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) based on NEP implementation and the UGC's push for NEP ambassadors highlight the central government's determination to see its vision realized.

Tamil Nadu's reluctance stems from fundamental disagreements with key aspects of the NEP. A senior official from the Higher Education Department emphasized the state's reservations regarding the Academic Bank of Credit (ABC) and the Multiple Entry and Multiple Exit (MEME) system. The state government fears that ABC lacks transparency and that MEME could undermine the integrity of university education.

However, the University of Madras has already implemented the ABC system, citing its necessity for distance learning programs and claiming official approval from the Higher Education Department. Similarly, Anna University is embracing the MEME system, viewing it as a flexible approach to education.

Former Anna University Vice Chancellor E. Balagurusamy acknowledged the NEP's insightful goals, such as increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio and enhancing research capabilities. However, he cautioned against the UGC's hasty implementation, criticizing initiatives like increased online admissions and double degree programs for potentially compromising educational quality.

P. Ratnasabapathy, president of the State Platform for Common School System – Tamil Nadu (SPCSS-TN), challenged the UGC's authority, asserting that it can only withhold grants and lacks the power to impose penalties for non-compliance. He argued that threats of removing universities from the UGC list are beyond the commission's mandate.

Meanwhile, the NEP 2020, aiming to transform India's education system, has seen significant developments. Recently, the No Detention Policy for students in Classes 5 and 8 was scrapped, requiring students to retake failed examinations. Key achievements of the NEP include the launch of the National Curriculum Framework for the Foundational Stage (NCF-FS) and the Jadui Pitara learning kit, the inclusion of regional languages in technical and medical education, the implementation of the four-year undergraduate program (FYUP) in numerous universities, and the integration of digital learning platforms.

However, challenges remain, including the integration of the 5+3+3+4 structure, the establishment of a single higher education regulator, and the lack of uniform monitoring mechanisms. The government, through figures like Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary, emphasizes the shared responsibility between the Centre and states for NEP's implementation.

Initiatives like the PM SHRI scheme and the 'NIPUN Bharat' mission are highlighted as steps towards achieving the policy's goals. In 2025, the focus is expected to shift towards a broader implementation of the 5+3+3+4 structure, the tabling of the bill for a unified higher education regulator, and the enhancement of teacher training programs.

The purpose and objective of Tamil Nadu's SEP 2025 is to create a state specific education policy, that reflects the states unique cultural and social needs. However, as Tamil Nadu grapples with the pressures of NEP implementation and its own vision for education, the fate of the SEP remains uncertain.

The State's reluctance to fully embrace the central government's policy highlights the ongoing tension between federal and state control over education, leaving students and institutions in a state of flux. The delay begs the question, when, or if, Tamil Nadu will implement its own educational vision. (Author is Senior Journalist Associated with Hindusthan Samachar as Tamilnadu State Representative)

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary