The Rocket Fuel That Is English

Source: The post is based on the article “The Rocket Fuel That Is English” published in The Times of India on 16^th September 2023.

Syllabus: GS 1 – Indian Society – Salient features of Indian Society

Relevance: About the necessity of English language in the society

News: The article explains that neither the English language should be considered as colonial nor one should depart from one’s culture while speaking or learning the language.

Further, post the success of Chandrayaan-3, scientists spoke in the English language while addressing the media.

What is the significance of scientists communicating in English?

Until recently, the idea of Indian scientists educated in their mother tongue successfully landing a rocket on the Moon seemed like a fantasy. Many believed that only students from English-language elite schools could achieve such feats.

However, Mission Chandrayaan-3 has challenged this perception. After landing on the Moon, Isro scientists effectively communicated with the public in fluent English, despite their modest educational backgrounds.

Further, great minds like Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel, despite being deeply rooted in their language and culture, qualified as barristers in England.

This illustrates that proficiency in English can be acquired without losing cultural identity.

When English is viewed as a cultural acquisition rather than just a technical tool, it can lead to colonialism. However, in the case of Chandrayaan-3 scientists, their success came from using English as a scientific tool, not for cultural reasons.

The era of individuals who once adopted a superficial British attitude and accent is fading. Today, self-made achievers, like Isro scientists who use English as a practical tool, are celebrated.

It’s also important to note that, after Hindi, English is the most widely spoken language in India, surpassing Bengali, Marathi, and others.

While English may not be their first language, these scientists’ proficiency in it is sufficient to make them top scientists in the country. They view English as a necessary tool, similar to a compass or pen and pencil, rather than a remnant of colonialism.

Why is it necessary to view English as a necessary tool?

As seen the case of Chandrayaan-3 scientists, teaching in one’s mother tongue doesn’t hinder learning English. The problem of poor education in India isn’t solved by abandoning English.

It’s crucial for students to be proficient in their mother tongue and also learn English for its practical benefits.

Isro scientists like K Sivan and Nigar Shaji, who came from modest backgrounds, achieved success through their education. They represent examples of the importance of learning English alongside their mother tongues.

In Europe, countries like Sweden, France, Holland, Finland, Norway, and Germany showcase a balance between embracing English for practical purposes and preserving their own culture.

What lies ahead?

English should be used as a practical tool rather than being burdened by its colonial history. Teaching English inadequately after dismissing it as colonial is counterproductive.

The Isro scientists serve as a living example of the benefits of using English instrumentally.