The Significance of Mother Tongue-Based Learning in Primary Education: In the Context of the Santali Language

MTB-MLE is one of the most promising pedagogies that have been developed to enhance the learning outcomes, especially in linguistically diverse societies. Research shows time and time again that learning starts in the first language and goes back to the first language. Tribal and Indigenous languages are not always given due consideration in formal education systems in India where hundreds of languages are spoken. The Santali language is a major tribal language of the Indian subcontinent and a part of the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, and therefore it is a good example of the importance of mother tongue-based education. The present paper aims to discuss the importance of the mother tongue-based learning and its educational, cognitive, socio-cultural and linguistic value in primary education in the context of Santali language. Leaning on UNESCO documents, education theories, and recent research on multilingual education, the paper suggests that the teaching of Santali in primary education will bring about better understanding, lower dropout rate, better cultural identity and inclusive development. The paper also covers policy initiatives, problems and recommendations in strengthening Santali-medium education in India. Keywords: Mother Tongue-Based Education, Santali Language, Primary Education, Multilingual Education, Tribal Education, Indigenous Languages, Olchiki