Chennai: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has directed higher education institutions across the country to implement the 'Learn One More Indian Language' scheme to promote multilingual learning among students.

In a statement, UGC Secretary Manish R Joshi said India was transitioning from an English-centric education system towards an Indian language learning ecosystem. He said acquiring knowledge of Indian languages was essential for achieving the goal of 'Developed India-2047' and would enhance employment opportunities for youth.

He said institutions should offer Indian languages as credit-based courses and encourage students to take them up. Learning an additional Indian language, besides the mother tongue, should be seen as a matter of pride, the UGC said.

The Commission also said institutions can teach at least three Indian languages, including one local language and any two among the 22 listed Indian languages.