Tag: education policy

Human Interest

Maharashtra Withdraws Resolution on Three-Language Policy After Backlash

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Mumbai, June 30, 2025 – The Maharashtra government has officially rescinded a recent resolution that sought to introduce Hindi as a mandatory language in primary schools, following widespread criticism from educators, language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.

🧭 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.

💬 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.
EduConnect

Hindi Made Mandatory as Third Language in Maharashtra Schools for Classes 1 to 5

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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.