Shah targets Stalin on language issue, asks CM to impart med, engg education in Tamil

CHENNAI: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led central government's commitment to promote regional languages, particularly Tamil, while addressing personnel at the 56th Raising Day celebrations of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) held at its Regional Training Centre, Thakkolam in Ranipet district.

Amit Shah emphasised the importance of preserving the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu and underscored PM Modi's efforts to honour the State's linguistic and cultural legacy.

During his address, Shah remarked that Tamil Nadu's heritage significantly contributes to the broader Indian cultural fabric, noting that Tamil Nadu's rich culture has greatly bolstered India's diverse heritage.

"The central government values and promotes every State's language," Shah stated, adding that "Prime Minister Modi has prioritised Tamil and its heritage, taking concrete steps to incorporate State languages into educational and professional spheres."

The Union Home Minister highlighted several initiatives introduced under PM Modi's leadership, including the inclusion of regional languages, such as Tamil, in critical examinations for the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF).

Shah explained that prior to Modi's tenure, candidates could not take CAPF exams in their mother tongue, be it Tamil, Bengali, or Kannada.

"Now, under the guidance of PM Modi, candidates can write the CAPF exams and few other exams in their regional languages, ensuring that no candidate is disadvantaged by language barriers," he asserted.

Amit Shah also reiterated the ambitious goal set by PM Modi, including transforming India into the world's third-largest economy by 2027 and making it as a fully developed nation by 2047.

He emphasised that the CISF has a pivotal role in safeguarding national interests directly contributing to the realisation of these grand objectives.

Offer medicine, engg courses in Tamil: Shah urges Stalin

Meanwhile, Amit Shah urged Chief Minister MK Stalin to introduce medicine and engineering courses in Tamil.

He emphasised that offering these courses in the Tamil language would greatly benefit local students and make higher education more accessible.

"I have been advocating for the introduction of medicine and engineering courses in Tamil for the past two years, but no action has been taken so far. I urge the Chief Minister to take the necessary steps at least now and initiate this important move," Shah said.

He highlighted that similar initiatives have already been implemented nationwide, allowing students to pursue courses in fields such as medicine and engineering in their native languages.

"This would help bridge educational gaps and ensure greater inclusivity for students across India," Shah stressed.

The Home Minister also paid tribute to the CISF personnel, acknowledging their dedication and commitment to national security, and congratulated them for their unwavering service to the country.

Earlier in the event, Shah inspected a Guard of Honour during the CISF's Raising Day celebration and laid the foundation for several new initiatives aimed at strengthening the force.

Meanwhile, BJP Tamil Nadu President K Annamalai expressed his gratitude to Amit Shah for renaming the CISF Recruits Training Center in Thakkolam as the "Rajaditya Cholan Training Centre" in honour of the legendary Tamil king.

Annamalai elaborated on the historical significance of Rajaditya Cholan, who earned the epithet "Yanaimel Thunjiya Devar" (the king who died on the back of an elephant in battle) during a heroic defense of the northern frontier of the Chola Empire.

"Rajaditya Cholan exemplified unmatched courage and valour," said Annamalai, adding that the king's legacy continues to resonate within the rich tapestry of Tamil history.

He thanked both Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for acknowledging the immense contributions of Tamil kings, who played a crucial role in shaping the region's culture and civilisation.