The NEP 2020's three-language policy is problematic due to its contradictory treatment of English – valuing it for STEM yet relegating it as "foreign." CBSE's implementation, requiring two "Bharatiya" languages from Class 6, adversely affects student performance and existing foreign language resources. Despite temporary relaxations, the policy stands. The author advocates a pragmatic approach: prioritizing mother tongue and English, with optional third languages based on choice and resources. This aligns with India's global development vision, avoiding "atavistic relapses" and building future-ready human capital for global roles.