Previously, the Maharashtra education department had announced a new rule in its education policy. This policy stated that Hindi will become a compulsory third language for students from standards 1 to 5 in English and Marathi medium schools in Maharashtra. However, the Government has now announced that it will soon implement a decision which allows students to choose any other Indian language in place of Hindi as their third compulsory language.
In a statement to Times of India, Hon. Chief Minister Shri. Devendra Fadnavis, regarding this decision stated, ‘If some schools want to teach another Indian language in place of Hindi and if there are at least 20 students opting for the same, a teacher can be provided, otherwise, for fewer students, provisions like online teaching can be made available.’
Why was Hindi Introduced as a Third Language?
How did this decision come into place? Let’s understand how the events unfolded. On 16 April, as a part of the State's broader education reforms, a directive was issued. This directive was to introduce Hindi as a third language in primary classes (Standards 1 to 5). This would mean that students, many of whom already study Marathi and English, would be required to learn a third language i.e Hindi.
On 20 April, 2025, Hon. Shri. Devendra Fadnavis clarified, ‘Marathi is mandatory. But under the NEP, it is mandatory to learn three languages, of which two need to be Indian languages. So, when the language panel headed by the minister submitted their report, they opted for Hindi as we have the required strength of faculty to teach Hindi.’
Language Panel Call for Reconsideration
The State’s Language Advisory Committee, an expert body tasked with guiding linguistic policy, has advised against this move. Their recommendation favors a two-language model, one that focuses on helping students gain fluency and confidence in the existing languages before introducing a third. In their view, less is more, especially when it comes to building solid language foundations in the early years.
Source
The Times of India, 21 April, 2025: Language panel opposes ‘Hindi compulsory’ decision; Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis says govt will offer choice.
Kindly note that any and all information is subject to change as per the Maharashtra State Board, Ministry of Education, and Government of India.
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