Is CM Fadnavis Addressing the Hindi 'Imposition' Controversy with a 3-Language Formula?
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Synopsis
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis convenes a meeting to address the rising tensions surrounding the Maharashtra government's decision to include Hindi as a third language in schools. As controversies unfold, leaders voice their concerns, questioning the impact on Marathi identity. The situation calls for a deeper examination of language policies in education.
Key Takeaways
- The Maharashtra government is introducing Hindi as a third language in schools.
- Students may choose alternative Indian languages if there is sufficient interest.
- Marathi remains compulsory in all schools.
- Opposition parties are vocal against the imposition of Hindi.
- The policy aligns with the Central government's New Education Policy.
Mumbai, June 23 (NationPress) In the midst of growing controversy regarding the Maharashtra government’s stance on incorporating Hindi as a third language in the curriculum of Marathi and English schools from Classes 1 to 5 starting in the academic year 2025-26, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has called for a meeting this Monday to evaluate the situation and oversee its execution.
The government released an updated government resolution (GR) last week, which notably omitted the term “mandatory” in reference to Hindi, clarifying that Hindi will serve as the third language in Marathi and English medium schools for Classes 1 to 5.
Additionally, the GR specified that students can opt for other Indian languages instead of Hindi, provided that at least 20 students per grade in a school express interest in studying an alternative Indian language.
It also emphasized that Marathi will remain compulsory in all educational institutions. For schools that do not use Marathi or English as the medium of instruction, the curriculum for Classes 1 to 5 will now include both Marathi and English. From Classes 6 to 10, the policy will conform to the existing State Curriculum Framework.
CM Fadnavis has ardently defended this government initiative, asserting that the three-language formula adheres to the Central government’s New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which mandates compliance from all states.
School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse contended that Hindi is not obligatory and reiterated that Marathi will remain a compulsory subject, threatening action against institutions that fail to comply.
Nevertheless, opposition parties have accused the BJP-led Mahayuti government of betrayal, opposing the introduction of Hindi as a third language. Former Union Minister and NCP(SP) leader Sharad Pawar stated that while no one opposes Hindi as a language, it should not be enforced.
Uddhav Thackeray, chief of Shiv Sena(UBT), expressed that his party does not oppose Hindi but questioned why it is being imposed on students. He asserted that his party would resist any attempt by the state government to make Hindi compulsory.
Raj Thackeray, founder of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, raised concerns about the necessity of adding Hindi as a third language, pointing out that even Gujarat has not mandated Hindi in its schools.
Harshwardhan Sapkal, president of the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee, accused CM Fadnavis of inflicting a blow to Maharashtra and its Marathi identity, alleging that this move is part of the BJP's anti-Maharashtra agenda, aimed at undermining the Marathi language, culture, and people.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the delicate balance between promoting multilingual education and respecting regional identities. The decision to introduce Hindi reflects a broader national policy, yet it must be implemented with sensitivity to Maharashtra's linguistic heritage, ensuring that the unique voice of the Marathi people is honored.
NationPress
23/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3-language formula proposed by the Maharashtra government?
The 3-language formula includes Hindi as a third language in Marathi and English medium schools for Classes 1 to 5, starting from the academic year 2025-26, while allowing students to choose other Indian languages if there is enough interest.
Is Hindi mandatory under the new policy?
According to the revised government resolution, Hindi is not mandatory. Students can opt for other Indian languages if at least 20 students in a grade express a desire to study them.
What is the stance of the opposition parties on this issue?
Opposition parties have accused the government of imposing Hindi on students and undermining Maharashtra's linguistic identity, with leaders expressing their intent to resist the implementation of this policy.
What measures will be taken against non-compliant schools?
The School Education Minister has stated that action will be taken against institutions that do not adhere to the policy, especially regarding the compulsory teaching of Marathi.
How does this policy align with the Central government's education directives?
The three-language formula is part of the Central government's New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which encourages states to implement multilingual education frameworks.
