On Monday, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan emphasized that if the Bharatiya Janata Party secures victory in Chhattisgarh, endeavors will be undertaken to provide education in the local Chhattisgarhi language in accordance with the New Education Policy.

The second phase of Assembly polls in Chhattisgarh is scheduled for November 17, with the vote count set for December 3. Addressing reporters at the party’s city office, ‘Ekatma Parisar,’ Pradhan referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assertion that every language in the country holds national status. During the BJP rule led by Raman Singh, Chhattisgarhi language attained the status of a state language. Pradhan highlighted that the national education policy, advocated by Modi, includes a fundamental plan to deliver education up to the 8th grade in the respective mother tongue.

Pradhan argued that learning in one’s mother tongue enhances critical thinking, research skills, and logical capabilities. He pledged that if the BJP assumes power in Chhattisgarh, special efforts will be directed towards prioritizing education in the Chhattisgarhi language under the NEP, fostering the inclusive development of the new generation.

In response to the Congress’ announcement on Sunday regarding a scheme offering Rs 15,000 annually to women if the party retains power, Pradhan criticized the ruling party for hastily making promises. He accused the Congress of failing to fulfill previous commitments, such as providing a Rs 1500 old-age pension, waiving loans for Self Help Groups, distributing four cooking gas cylinders to rural families, and enforcing a liquor ban in 2018. Pradhan asserted that the Congress, anticipating defeat in the polls, is making a futile attempt to impede the “vijay rath” (victory chariot) of the BJP.

According to Pradhan, Chhattisgarh ranks among the top states in crimes against women, with one lakh women reported missing in the state over five years. He contended that women’s empowerment is not a priority for the Congress, asserting that corruption is the party’s primary agenda. Pradhan claimed that the Congress, having lost credibility in Chhattisgarh, is hastily making promises in anticipation of electoral defeat. He concluded by stating that the Narendra Modi government places top priority on women’s empowerment and development led by women.

Also read: Rahul Gandhi vows free education in Chhattisgarh if Congress wins