Chapter IV: Special Directives

Article 350A: Facilities for instruction in mother-tongue at primary stage

Original Article:

It shall be the endeavour of every State and of every local authority within the State to provide adequate facilities for instruction in the mother-tongue at the primary stage of education to children belonging to linguistic minority groups; and the President may issue such directions to any State as he considers necessary or proper for securing the provision of such facilities.

Inserted by the Constitution (Seventh Amendment) Act, 1956, effective from 1-11-1956.

Explanations:

Article 350A emphasizes the importance of providing education in the mother tongue for linguistic minority children at the primary level. Recognizing the role of language in cultural preservation and early learning, this Article mandates that states and local authorities make efforts to support mother-tongue instruction, ensuring linguistic diversity in education.

Key Provisions:

Ensuring Mother-Tongue Education for Linguistic Minorities

Under Article 350A, each state and local authority is encouraged to offer primary education in the mother tongue for children from linguistic minority groups. The Article directs authorities to make "adequate facilities" available for mother-tongue instruction, thereby enhancing accessibility and inclusivity in education for all linguistic communities.

Amendments and Developments:

Article 350A was inserted into the Constitution by the Seventh Constitutional Amendment Act, 1956, which took effect on November 1, 1956. This insertion was part of a broader commitment to linguistic equity following the reorganization of states on a linguistic basis.

Real-Life Example:

In states like Maharashtra, where linguistic minorities such as Gujarati or Kannada speakers reside, local authorities provide mother-tongue instruction in primary schools. This provision enables children to start their education in a familiar language, fostering better learning outcomes and a stronger cultural connection.

References and Legal Context:

Article 350A aligns with Article 29, which protects the rights of minorities to preserve their language and culture. Together with Article 350, which permits grievance redressal in any regional language, these provisions underscore India’s commitment to linguistic diversity and inclusiveness.