Karnataka Plans State Education Policy with Two-Language Formula
In a major policy shift that aims to align education with regional culture, linguistic identity, and practical skills, the Karnataka government is preparing to roll out a state-specific education policy. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, speaking during the 79th Independence Day celebrations on Friday, announced that the state will soon implement a comprehensive education framework tailored specifically to Karnataka’s needs.
This is a significant step that breaks away from the National Education Policy (NEP) introduced by the central government, and fulfills a key poll promise made by the ruling Congress government to replace the NEP with a more localized approach.
A State Education Policy Commission, constituted in October 2023 under the chairmanship of renowned educationist Prof. Sukhadeo Thorat, submitted its report to the Chief Minister on August 8, 2025. The commission’s recommendations form the backbone of the new policy framework, with one of the most notable suggestions being the introduction of a two-language formula and mother tongue-based learning up to Class 5.
According to Siddaramaiah, the aim of this policy is not just academic excellence but holistic development of youth by integrating linguistic diversity, regional heritage, and skill-based learning into mainstream education. “For the first time, we are framing a Karnataka-specific education policy to ensure the overall development of our youth and to make education more inclusive, practical, and rooted in our cultural ethos,” he said.
Two-Language Formula & Mother Tongue Instruction
The commission has recommended that students in Karnataka schools should learn through a two-language model, with Kannada or the mother tongue as the medium of instruction up to Class 5. This move is expected to improve conceptual clarity, increase student engagement, and boost learning outcomes, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas where students often struggle with English-medium instruction in the early years.
The policy also seeks to recognize and support linguistic diversity within the state, giving equal importance to regional languages and dialects in early education. Experts argue that early learning in the mother tongue not only promotes better cognitive development but also builds stronger community and cultural connections.
While Kannada remains the central language in the state’s education system, provisions are expected to be made for other widely spoken regional languages in specific districts.
Massive Investment in School Infrastructure
To support the implementation of this new education model, the government has announced the establishment of 500 Karnataka Public Schools (KPS) this year alone, with an estimated investment of ₹2,500 crore. These schools are envisioned as model institutions that will set the standard for infrastructure, curriculum, and teaching practices under the new policy.
These KPS institutions are expected to deliver a more integrated and accessible education experience, especially for children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The schools will likely follow the state-specific curriculum, implement the two-language policy, and focus heavily on practical, skills-based learning.
Expansion of Higher and Technical Education
Beyond school education, the Karnataka government is also investing significantly in higher and technical education. The Chief Minister announced the upgradation of first-grade colleges and polytechnics across the state, again backed by a ₹2,500 crore funding initiative. Additionally, the state is in the process of establishing 13 new technical education institutions to increase the availability of industry-relevant education and improve employability among students.
Siddaramaiah emphasized the importance of skill development in today’s job market, pointing out that education should not be limited to theoretical knowledge but must provide real-world skills to help students transition into the workforce.
Focus on Nutrition and Staff Welfare
As part of the larger education reform, the state continues to prioritize nutritional support for students. The Chief Minister confirmed that the government is providing nutritious meals to over 53 lakh children, which includes ragi malt, milk, eggs or bananas, in addition to a hot mid-day meal on all school days.
Recognizing the contribution of teaching and support staff, the government has also increased honoraria for guest teachers and midday meal workers. Recruitment of full-time teachers has been prioritized to fill vacancies and improve student-teacher ratios across government schools.
Vocational Guidance and Career Readiness
Under the motto “My Career, My Choice,” the Karnataka government has initiated vocational guidance programs in 150 government schools, targeting students in Grades 8 to 12. So far, the program has benefited 35,000 students, providing them with structured career counseling and exposure to various skill-based opportunities.
The government plans to scale up the program to reach 2.3 lakh students, with the goal of integrating career readiness and job-oriented learning into the regular school curriculum.
In addition to school-based programs, the state is strengthening Government Tool Room and Training Centres (GTTCs) and Multi Skill Development Centres (MSDCs), with the vision of turning them into centres of excellence in vocational training. These institutions will offer a range of technical courses that align with market needs, helping bridge the gap between education and employment.
Empowering Women and Transgender Communities
The Chief Minister also touched upon initiatives beyond the classroom, focused on economic empowerment and social inclusion. A notable highlight is the launch of ‘Akka Cafes’, community-run food outlets managed by women from self-help groups. These cafes are being set up across the state to promote entrepreneurship among women.
In an inclusive move, Siddaramaiah pointed out that one of the Akka Cafes in Haveri district is being successfully operated by members of the transgender community, reflecting the government’s broader commitment to social justice and empowerment.
A Decentralized and Inclusive Education Vision
The Karnataka-specific education policy marks a decisive turn away from a one-size-fits-all model. By embracing local languages, investing in school infrastructure, promoting vocational education, and ensuring nutritional and social support for students, the state is crafting an education system that is both inclusive and practical.
While full implementation will take time and continued political commitment, the roadmap unveiled by Siddaramaiah sets a clear direction. It prioritizes linguistic identity, equity, and employment-readiness, positioning Karnataka as a potential model for regionally-tailored education reforms in India.
As Karnataka steps into this new educational era, the success of the policy will depend on effective implementation, community participation, and consistent monitoring to ensure that the intended benefits reach every student, regardless of background or geography.
