Archive · 17 Aug 2025
Engineering Courses in Local Languages Lacking Textbooks
Imagine the government wanted more students to study engineering in their own languages.
They started programs in 12 Indian languages, but the textbooks weren't ready!
First-year books were translated, but later years were delayed.
This meant students often had to use English textbooks, which made it harder for some to understand.
Although some colleges are offering these courses, many top schools have not.
Experts say it's crucial to translate all the books, especially the ones for advanced subjects, so students can learn better.
Some colleges have also switched to a system using English books and classes in their native languages.
AICTE green-lighted vernacular-medium engineering courses in 12 languages from 2021-22.
First-year engineering textbooks were translated into Indian languages, but translation of the third and fourth-year textbooks was yet to begin.
Many students relied on English textbooks as the translation took several years.
41 engineering colleges offer vernacular-medium BTech and diploma courses in eight Indian languages.
Experts point out the need to translate complex, discipline-specific textbooks for advanced years.
- Who
- All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), engineering colleges, and students.
- What
- Implementation of vernacular-medium BTech and diploma engineering courses.
- When
- Initiated in 2021-22.
- Where
- 41 engineering colleges across 13 states in India.
- Why
- To promote engineering education in Indian languages.
Challenges
Adaptations
Language of Instruction
Challenges
Students might struggle to grasp concepts without textbooks in their chosen languages.
Adaptations
Colleges and students have adapted through blended approaches, with English textbooks and native language classes.
- Languages Offered
- Bengali, Marathi, Hindi, Gujarati, Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, Malayalam
- Number of Colleges
- 41
- Year Initiated
- 2021-22
- Textbook Translation Status
- First-year books translated, second-year books in process, third and fourth-year yet to begin
- Translation Tool
- Anuvadini