English language skills
In the mid-sixties, during my short stint as a lecturer in one of the premier colleges of our country, what I experienced is worth remembering in retrospect even after a lapse of about half a century, particularly in the present social context. In those days, except the vernacular subject, teachers used to deliver class lectures in English. Students generally were comfortable with the language. Their verbal presentation of the subject matter in English was quite satisfactory. In the educated segment of society a good number of people used to read, write and often speak English. Civil servants, especially those at the helm, were at ease with the English language. Their conference speech, press briefing etc were a matter of treat, often punctuated with wit and humour.
But the situation is very different these days.
It is absolutely necessary that our policy makers, considering the greater national interest, address this vital issue on a top priority basis.
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