The Union Government has told the Supreme Court that Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs) in non-Hindi speaking regions use the regional language or English as the medium of instruction. The submission came in response to Tamil Nadu’s objection that the scheme conflicts with the State’s statutory two-language policy.
Centre Explains Language Pattern In JNVs
In an affidavit before the Court, the Centre clarified the language pattern followed in Navodaya schools in non-Hindi speaking regions. It said that students in Classes VI to VIII study in the regional language or English. It added that schools mostly use English, though some children write in the regional language.
For Classes IX to XII, the affidavit said schools teach science and mathematics in English. It also said that social sciences and humanities are taught in English.
The affidavit states: “That the medium of instructions in JNVs in Non-Hindi speaking regions is as under: (i) Class VI to VIII:- Regional Language or English (Mostly in English, some children write in Regional Language). Class IX to XII: (Sciences & Mathematics: English, Social Sciences & Humanities: English”.
Ministry Refers To National Policy On Education
The Ministry of Education filed the affidavit. It told the Court that the National Policy on Education, 1986 envisaged residential schools known as Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas in each district. According to the Centre, the policy aimed to provide quality modern education and identify rural talent.
The Centre also said that the Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti runs these schools. It described the Samiti as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Education.
No Navodaya Schools In Tamil Nadu Yet
The Union Government stated that 689 Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas have been sanctioned in 666 districts across the country as on date. It also said that no JNV has been opened in any district of Tamil Nadu because the State Government has not accepted the scheme.
The Centre said several factors govern the opening of new Navodaya schools. These include acceptance of the scheme by the State Government and the availability of land and funds. It said its role in establishing such schools in Tamil Nadu would arise only after the State agrees to adopt the scheme.
Centre Says It Tried To Persuade State
The Union Government said that the Ministry of Education and the Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti have made several efforts to persuade Tamil Nadu to adopt the scheme. According to the Centre, this would allow meritorious children from the State to benefit from it. However, it said the State has not accepted the proposal so far.
The affidavit also set out the infrastructure requirements. It said the State Government or Union Territory administration must provide around 30 acres of suitable land free of cost. It must also provide temporary rent-free accommodation, electricity, and water. These facilities must support about 240 students and staff for three to four years until the permanent school building is constructed.
Centre Says It Has No Objection If State Agrees
The affidavit further states that the Union Government remains committed to establishing Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas across the country. It said the schools aim to provide quality education to children from rural and economically weaker sections.
The Centre also said that the Ministry of Education has no objection to establishing such schools in Tamil Nadu. However, it said the State must first agree to the proposal and fulfil the required norms and conditions.
Background Of The Case
The matter arises from a petition filed by the State of Tamil Nadu. The State challenged a Madras High Court order that directed the establishment of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas in every district of Tamil Nadu. The High Court had also directed the State to provide temporary accommodation for 240 students in each district.
The Supreme Court stayed the High Court order in December 2017. Later, in December 2025, the Court directed the State to identify the extent of land required for Navodaya schools in each district. It also asked the State to hold consultations with the Union Government on the issue.
Case No. – SLP(C) No. 33459/2017
Case Title – State of Tamil Nadu v. Kumari Maha Sabha
Also Read: SC Stays Bail Cancellation In Armstrong Case
