TAMIL SANGAMAM’S 4TH EDITION

NEWS

• The 4th edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam is set to focus on promoting Tamil language learning.
• The initiative coincides with tensions between the Central Government and Tamil Nadu over the three-language formula under NEP 2020.
• The event aims to strengthen cultural and civilizational ties between Tamil Nadu and Varanasi (Kashi), Uttar Pradesh.

HIGHLIGHTS

Kashi Tamil Sangamam

• Launched in 2022, the Sangamam commemorates the historical connection between Tamil Nadu and Kashi.
• Involves cultural exchange where participants from Tamil Nadu travel to Kashi for language and cultural programmes.
• The theme this year: “Tamil Karkalam” (Let us learn Tamil).

Key Activities

• Tamil language teaching: 50 Tamil Nadu teachers (fluent in Hindi) to teach ~1,500 students in 50 Varanasi schools (Dec 2–15).
• Student exchange: 300 college students from Varanasi to learn Tamil in institutions like IIT Madras, Pondicherry University, Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan.
• Sage Agastya Vehicle Expedition: Road journey from Tenkasi (Tamil Nadu) to Kashi, passing through Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Madhya Pradesh (Dec 2–10).

Context: Three-Language Formula & NEP

• NEP 2020 recommends teaching three languages in schools.
• Tamil Nadu opposes it, fearing Hindi imposition, preferring Tamil and English.
• The Centre maintains that the policy does not mandate any specific language.

Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat Initiative

• Promotes inter-state cultural exchange to foster understanding, language learning, and mutual appreciation.
• Activities are planned via state/UT pairing, including cultural programmes, cuisine, sports, and tourism initiatives.

Significance

• Enhances socio-cultural bonding between states.
• Promotes multilingualism and national integration.
• Offers economic and educational opportunities for local communities in Tamil Nadu and Kashi.