“Why Is Hindi Not Taught In TN Schools While French Is Offered?”, BJP Councillor Uma Anandan Questions Chennai Mayor Priya

In a recent meeting of the Greater Chennai Corporation, BJP councillor Uma Anandan kicked off a heated debate by questioning why Hindi is not taught in TN schools while French is offered as a language for students. She also criticized the English pronunciation skills of students in Chennai Corporation schools. The remarks, which have quickly gone viral, prompted a swift response from Corporation Mayor Priya Rajan.

On 29 August 2024, the Greater Chennai Corporation held its council meeting before the monsoon season to review its course, led by Mayor Priya Rajan, including participation from Corporation Commissioner Kumaraguruparan, Deputy Mayor Mahesh Kumar, and various councillors. The agenda focused on measures to prevent monsoon rain damage and improve rainwater drainage systems.

During the meeting, BJP councilor Uma Anandan noted that while French is taught in schools within her wards, it is not universally spoken and questioned why Hindi is not also included in the curriculum. She argued that Hindi could be beneficial for students in communication across India and for UPSC exams. Anandan further claimed that Chennai Corporation students struggle with English pronunciation due to inadequate teaching methods.

Uma Anandan said, “Teach them Hindi. They can cross Guduvancheri, and it will be useful for the central government exams, for exams like IAS and IPS. There is no charge for it; the Hindi Prachar Sabha teaches for free.”

This caused a stir among DMK councillors, leading Mayor Priya Rajan to address the concerns. The Mayor explained that while skill development is crucial, Tamil and English are prioritized, with French offered as an optional subject for interested students. She emphasized that English instruction includes daily vocabulary exercises, newspaper readings, and conversational practice.

Priya Rajan countered Anandan’s criticism by stating that pronunciation and skill development are continuously addressed from early education. She acknowledged that pronunciation could vary regionally and globally but assured that the focus is on making students proficient in English communication. The Mayor reaffirmed that the Chennai Corporation aims to provide quality education, emphasizing comprehension and effective communication rather than conforming to any specific English accent.

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