'Hindi As Third Language' No Longer Mandatory In Schools: Maharashtra Govt's Fresh GR Offers Opt-Out Option For Students
Mumbai: Following widespread criticism, the Maharashtra government revised its earlier decision to make Hindi a mandatory third language in primary schools. As per the updated guidelines issued by the state school education department on Tuesday, June 17, students in Classes 1 to 5 studying in Marathi and English-medium schools can now opt for a different Indian language instead of Hindi, subject to specific conditions.
According to the revised government resolution (GR), if at least 20 students in a class express a desire to study an Indian language other than Hindi, the school will be provided with a dedicated teacher for that language. If the number of students opting for another language is fewer than 20, the subject will be taught online.
The corrigendum to the earlier GR states: “As per the State Curriculum Framework – School Education 2024, in Marathi and English medium schools, Hindi will generally be the third language from Class 1 to 5. However, if students wish to study another Indian language, they shall be permitted to do so.” This move is aimed at offering greater linguistic flexibility while maintaining the core structure of the curriculum.
The revised language policy also clarifies the language structure for schools with mediums other than Marathi and English. In such schools, students will study three languages, namely, the medium of instruction, Marathi (which remains compulsory) and English.
This structure is aligned with the recommendations of the State Curriculum Framework and aims to ensure a uniform approach across various types of schools in the state. For students in Classes 6 to 10, the language policy will follow the existing guidelines outlined in the curriculum framework.
Political Showdown Over 'Hindi Mandatory' In Schools
The initial decision to make Hindi mandatory had sparked protests in April this year. Opposition parties, notably the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), had strongly opposed what they called the 'imposition' of Hindi. Responding to the backlash, State School Education Minister Dada Bhuse had announced a stay on the original order and promised a revised resolution.
The pressure to reconsider the policy had also mounted after the state’s language consultation committee recommended that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis revoke the decision. The new policy reflects a more inclusive approach, allowing linguistic choice while preserving Marathi's status as a compulsory subject in all schools.
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