M a education paper-v methods of teaching english

1.4 The Three Language Formula :
Even though English was accepted as Associate Official Language, it did not mean that it was to 
be accepted as a medium of instruction in Indian schools. Mother tongue becomes the only 
choice as the medium of instruction. The psychological and social advantages of learning though 
one’s own mother-tongue had been proved by many researches in the field of Education. At the 
same time the need was felt to learn more language. One for National Communication and the 
other for International Communication. This is how the three language formula emerged in the 
educational field. The Three languages Formula is an attempt to address the challenges and 
opportunities of the linguistic situations in India. The primary aim of the formula is to promote 
multilingualism and national harmony.

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The Three language formula states that every child in school has to read at least three language: 
(1) The regional language (2) Hindi and English in non- Hindi speaking areas (3) English and 
non- Hindi regional language in Hindi speaking areas. 
The formula was presented by National Integration Council and later endorsed by Chief Minister 
‘Conference in 1961. 
Kothari Commission found some difficult lties in the working of this formula 
and recommended in turn the Three language formula as follows :-
(a) Mother tongue or regional language in class I to IV. 
(b) The official language of the union or the associate official language of the union so long as it is 
recognized as such in classes V- VIII and
(c) A Modern Indian or foreign language not covered under (a) and (b) in classes VIII-X.
Mother tongue is thought to be the best medium of instruction as one can express 
oneself with clarity, precision and vigor in thinking. Scientific and technical knowledge is also 
made available in mother tongue which facilitates development of the talent and the progress in 
language. In Odisha, Odia is called L1, English L2, Hindi or Sanskrit L3. Now the teaching of 
English is started from the class III in Odisha board schools. This is not for belittling the 
importance of mother tongue but for making Odia people efficient and fluent speakers in 
English. That they should write English correctly is one of the objectives in starting English from 
the class III. That language should not become a barrier in the progress also another objective.