According to a press release, the event, organized by the UP government, was a meaningful attempt to connect the children with the rich Indian languages and the country’s cultural heritage. The event, centred around the theme ‘Unity Through Languages,’ served as a platform to inspire children with the message of national unity while instilling a deep appreciation for mother tongues and regional languages, the release further mentioned.
“Reflecting the soul of India and its linguistic diversity, this theme aimed to cultivate qualities such as linguistic skills, cultural awareness, and self-confidence among children,” the release said.
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes the promotion of multilingual education. This policy focuses on making mother tongues and regional languages the medium of education. It also aims to develop linguistic skills in students and promote the benefits of multilingualism.
The programme ‘Bharatiya Bhasha Utsav-2024’ highlighted the importance and diversity of Indian languages. The week-long programme saw different activities, workshops, and programs to engage students.
On the first day, students were made aware about the theme of ‘harmony between language and nature.’ They made a ‘Language Tree’ by writing words in various Indian languages. They also recited poems related to nature and the environment, besides discussing their observations during nature walks in their mother tongues.Several programmes, including workshops, titled as ‘Bhasha and Sahitya Sammelan,’ ‘Language Fair,’ ‘Excellence in Expression,’ and ‘Language and Community,’ were organized.UP’ minister of state for Basic Education, Sandeep Singh, said, “India is known for its linguistic diversity and cultural richness. The aim of the ‘Bharatiya Bhasha Utsav 2024’ is to preserve this heritage and help children understand the importance of national unity and cultural diversity. This event has successfully nurtured linguistic appreciation and cultural values among children”.
