Tamil Nadu State Education Policy (SEP): Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin unveiled the State Education Policy (SEP) on Friday at Anna Centenary Library Auditorium, marking a decisive break from the Centre's National Education Policy. The policy represents the state's educational autonomy and reflects its commitment to linguistic preferences.

A 14-member committee headed by retired Justice Murugesan was constituted in 2022 to draft the new policy. The panel submitted its recommendations to the Chief Minister in July last year, and the document has now been formally released.

Committee Recommendations and Key Features:

A 14-member committee led by retired Justice Murugesan, constituted in 2022, drafted the comprehensive policy after extensive deliberations. The panel submitted its recommendations in July last year, culminating in Friday's formal release.

The SEP retains Tamil Nadu's established two-language policy, directly rejecting the NEP's three-language formula. This decision aligns with the state's historical stance on language education and cultural preservation.

For higher education, the policy recommends undergraduate admissions based on consolidated Class 11 and 12 marks rather than common entrance examinations. This approach aims to reduce examination pressure on students.

Opposition to NEP Provisions:

The committee strongly opposes NEP's proposal for public examinations in Classes 3, 5, and 8, terming it regressive and anti-social justice. Officials argue these early examinations could increase dropout rates and commercialise education.

The policy emphasises significant investment in science, artificial intelligence, and English education while strengthening state-run institutions. It also recommends transferring education from the concurrent list back to the state list.

Funding Dispute with Centre:

The policy release occurs amid ongoing tensions over funding. Tamil Nadu alleges the Centre withheld ₹2,152 crore under Samagra Shiksha scheme due to NEP non-implementation.

Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin declared the state's firm position: "Even if they give ₹1,000 crore, Tamil Nadu won't implement NEP. Tamil Nadu doesn't like imposition in any form." This statement underscores the state's determination to maintain educational independence despite financial pressures.