UP Promotes Multilingualism: Yogi Adityanath Criticizes 'Language Politics'

Uttar Pradesh Schools Now Teach Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Bengali, and Marathi​

Lucknow, April 1 — Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken a firm stand against what he called “language politics,” asserting that embracing linguistic diversity strengthens, rather than diminishes, a state’s identity. He emphasized that government schools in the state now offer a range of regional languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Bengali, and Marathi.

In an interview, Adityanath addressed concerns raised by some political leaders regarding the promotion of Hindi or other regional languages, indirectly criticizing states involved in what he described as divisive language debates.

"Learning Languages Strengthens Unity, Not Weakens Identity"​

"Does this diminish Uttar Pradesh in any way? Does it make UP look small?" the Chief Minister asked, defending his government’s multilingual curriculum. He stressed that learning multiple Indian languages is a means to foster national unity, not a threat to regional identity.

He added that languages such as Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Bengali, and Marathi carry rich traditions that contribute to the cultural fabric of the nation.

Employment and Education Go Hand-in-Hand​

Adityanath also linked language learning with economic opportunities. Highlighting Uttar Pradesh’s rising trajectory, he said the state is actively creating jobs for the youth, and that politicizing language only hampers progress.

“New job opportunities are opening up in Uttar Pradesh. People who create controversy over language may gain politically but are hurting the future of young people,” he stated.

Indirect Swipe at Tamil Nadu Leadership​

When asked if his comments were aimed at Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin, Adityanath remarked, “Whosoever they are, they are doing it. This is the reason those states are on a gradual decline.” He accused such leaders of “inflaming emotions” to serve political agendas instead of focusing on development.

Upholding the Three-Language Formula​

Reaffirming his support for the national education policy, Adityanath said India’s three-language formula ensures equal respect for Hindi and regional languages. “Every language has its own speciality, which becomes the cornerstone of national unity,” he said.

Cultural Harmony Through Initiatives Like Kashi Tamil Sangamam​

Citing the Kashi Tamil Sangamam, a cultural exchange program, the Chief Minister praised it as a prime example of India’s linguistic harmony. The initiative, he noted, celebrates the connection between two of India’s oldest languages—Tamil and Sanskrit—while showcasing the country’s cultural and linguistic diversity.