Mumbai, June 2025 – In a significant step towards promoting multilingual education and national integration, the Government of Maharashtra has announced that Hindi will be made a compulsory third language in all schools across the state for students from Classes 1 to 5, starting from the upcoming academic year.
The directive, issued by the Maharashtra State Education Department, applies to all government, aided, and unaided schools, including those affiliated with state, CBSE, ICSE, and international boards operating within the state.
Implementation and Language Structure
Under the three-language formula, students will now study:
- First Language: Regional language (Marathi, in most cases)
- Second Language: English or another language as per the school’s existing policy
- Third Language: Hindi (now compulsory for Classes 1 to 5)
The initiative aims to provide students with foundational knowledge of Hindi, one of the official languages of India, during their formative years.
Rationale Behind the Move
Education officials stated that the move is part of an effort to strengthen national language literacy, ensure smoother inter-state communication, and foster cultural understanding among young learners. It also aligns with the broader goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which encourages multilingualism and a deeper connection with the linguistic diversity of India.
Government’s Statement
A senior education official commented,
“The ability to understand and use multiple languages, especially Hindi as a link language, will equip our children to engage better in a diverse, interconnected country like India. This move is also about inclusivity and national unity.”
Response from Stakeholders
While the decision has been welcomed by several educators and policymakers as a step toward greater linguistic inclusivity, some parent groups and educational institutions have expressed concerns over curriculum load and language flexibility in non-Hindi-speaking regions. The state government has assured that teacher training and support materials will be provided to ensure smooth implementation without overburdening students.
What’s Next
- Textbooks and learning aids in Hindi for Classes 1–5 are being developed.
- Training programs for teachers are being rolled out in collaboration with academic bodies.
- Monitoring mechanisms will be put in place to ensure quality language instruction.
Conclusion:
The decision to mandate Hindi as a third language in Maharashtra schools underscores the state’s commitment to a well-rounded and inclusive education system. As the policy unfolds, it is expected to pave the way for stronger linguistic skills, better inter-regional communication, and enhanced national integration among the next generation of students.
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