School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse on Tuesday announced that Marathi will be a compulsory subject in all schools in Maharashtra. This announcement was based on the Maharashtra Compulsory Teaching and Learning of Marathi Language in Schools Act, 2020.
How Did the Act Originate?
In 2020-21, Marathi was made a compulsory language through the Maharashtra Compulsory Teaching and Learning of Marathi Language in Schools Act, 2020.
This Act made it compulsory for schools to teach the language regardless of their Board affiliation. However, the Covid-19 pandemic made it difficult to implement this act, which resulted in short-term compromises. As a result, in April 2023, Non-State Board schools were allowed to assess Marathi as a graded subject.
In September 2024, the Government announced that the concession only applied to the April 2023 batch. From the academic year 2025-26, all Maharashtra schools have to include Marathi as a core non-graded subject. There will be a strict implementation of the September 2024 directive from the academic year 2025-26.
What Does the Act Mandate?
- Marathi to be made a compulsory subject in schools regardless of the Board in Maharashtra.
- Marks-based evaluation instead of graded assessment.
- Staff must know basic working Marathi.
- Appointment of faculty with Marathi language proficiency and teaching skills.
- Language proficiency test for staff members.
Why Was the Act Implemented?
The Act was implemented as a measure to preserve the State’s linguistic heritage.
It was a commitment made by the Government to elevate Marathi’s status in the academic curriculum and to ensure students engage more with the language.
Conclusion
To sum it up, Marathi will now be a compulsory language in all schools including the CBSE, ICSE and IB Boards in Maharashtra. Schools have been advised to ensure proper arrangements for this transition by updating their curriculum and making sure that there are enough resources for the change.
With Marathi now being a compulsory subject in schools, ensure your students get the best material for learning the language with our Maharashtra State Board Marathi Grammar and Writing Skills books.
