Tag: language activism

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Mumbai, June 30, 2025 – The Maharashtra government has officially rescinded a recent resolution that sought to introduce Hindi as a mandatory language in primary schools, following widespread criticism from educators, language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

“Ravindra Kelekar’s literature serves as an inspiration for today’s youth” – Raju Nayak

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Ravindra Kelekar made a significant contribution to Konkani literature. He tirelessly worked to preserve Goa’s identity and was deeply committed to the Konkani language. He firmly believed that foreign rule should not prevail over his homeland. Through his work and writings, Ravindrabab provided direction to the younger generation and shared his vision for Goa’s future. His literary works covered a wide range of subjects.

Raju Nayak, the editor of Gomantak, expressed that today’s youth should read Ravindrabab’s literature and draw inspiration from it. He was speaking as the chief guest at a one-day festival organized to mark the birth centenary of Ravindra Kelekar. The event was jointly organized by M.E.S. Vasant Joshi Arts & Commerce College, Zuari Nagar, and Institut Menezes Braganza. It was held at the M.S. Kamat Auditorium of M.E.S. College.

The program began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, followed by offering flowers to a portrait of Ravindra Kelekar. Ashok Parab, the Member Secretary of Institute hi  Menezes Braganza, welcomed the gathering. Dr. Manasvi Kamat, Principal of M.E.S.  Vasant Joshi College, in his speech, highlighted that this year marks the birth centenary of two great personalities of Goa and acknowledged the Konkani Department of the college for organizing events to commemorate them.

Later, Dashrath Parab, President of Institute Menezes Braganza, shared his thoughts on the occasion. Among the distinguished guests was architect Girish Kelekar, son of Ravindra Kelekar, who spoke about his father’s life and work. The event was anchored by Rajat Hegde, while Satyawan Nayak, in charge of the Konkani Department and event coordinator, expressed gratitude.

Following this, a film on the life and work of Ravindra Kelekar, produced by Dilip Borkar, was screened. The film’s producer, Dilip Borkar, and Sainath Parab were present at the screening. Subsequently, students and teachers presented poetry recitations, with around 20 participants taking part.

In the afternoon session, a quiz competition on Ravindra Kelekar’s life was held. The first prize was awarded to Snehal Naik and Kirti Malekar, the second prize to Siddhi Naik and Ayushi Naik, and the third prize to Samiksha Naik and Roshni Pille. The consolation prize went to Radhika Saroj and Gayatri. Rajat Hegde served as the quiz master.

During the concluding session, Ashok Parab and Satyawan Naik distributed prizes to the winners and presented certificates to all participants, including students and teachers. The closing ceremony was anchored by Nalisha Velip. Among those present were Assistant Professors Nidhi Nayak and Lakshata Matonkar, along with other faculty members. The day-long event saw enthusiastic participation from teachers and students.