Maharashtra Withdraws Resolution on Three-Language Policy After Backlash

Mumbai, June 30, 2025 – The Maharashtra government has officially rescinded a recent resolution that sought to introduce Hindi as a mandatory language in primary schools, following widespread criticism from educators, language activists, and cultural groups. Officials have confirmed that a high-level committee will now be formed to review the larger three-language policy framework.

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🧭 What prompted the reversal?

• Strong public opposition: Teachers, parents, and advocacy groups raised concerns that mandating Hindi in Marathi-medium schools threatens the state’s linguistic heritage and could sideline Marathi, the official language of Maharashtra.
• Fear among local educators: Many argued that the abrupt change would burden both students and teachers, who may lack the resources or training to teach Hindi effectively at the primary level.

🚨 Details of the original resolution

• The now-revoked GR (Government Resolution) mandated Hindi instruction beginning in Class 1 in all government-run primary schools across the state.
• This measure was aligned with the centre’s three-language policy, aimed at fostering national integration through language education.

🎯 What’s next?

• Formation of a review committee: The government is setting up a multidisciplinary panel—including education experts, linguists, educators, and community representatives—to thoroughly evaluate the existing three-language framework.
• State-wide consultations: The committee will hold public hearings and focus group meetings in various districts to gather input from grassroots stakeholders.
• Policy recalibration: Based on feedback, the committee will propose adjustments that safeguard Marathi while promoting multilingual competence in students.

🔍 Why it matters

• Balancing regional with national priorities: Maharashtra’s reversal highlights the delicate act of promoting national integration through Hindi without marginalizing regional languages.
• Decentralised decision-making: By involving parents, teachers, and language activists, the government is signalling a shift toward more democratic and inclusive policymaking in education.
• Potential ripple effect: This reversal could influence how other states implement the three-language policy, spotlighting the importance of local context in educational reforms.

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💬 Response from educators and activists

• Educators’ relief: Many teachers welcomed the decision, saying, “Stakeholder participation is essential before implementing policies that affect classroom teaching.”
• Language activists say: “Marathi must remain central to foundational education. Any additional languages should reinforce—not replace—our mother tongue.”

➡ What to watch for

• Committee launch: Keep an eye out for announcements on committee membership and timelines.
• Consultation process updates: Regular progress reports are expected detailing public engagement and interim recommendations.
• Revised language policy: The collective goal is a language curriculum that respects regional identity, promotes national unity, and empowers students to learn English and other languages.