Recently, the Maharashtra government decided to introduce Hindi as a mandatory third language in all English and Marathi medium State Board schools, starting from Grade 1 to Grade 5. This move was based on the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which encourages learning multiple languages.
What Changed?
Earlier, students in these schools studied two languages (like Marathi and English) from Grades 1 to 4. A third language (usually Hindi) was introduced only from Grade 5. But with the new policy, the government wanted students to learn three languages from the start — and made Hindi compulsory as the third one.
The Controversy:
After the decision was announced in April 2024, there was strong opposition from various groups, including educators, parents, and political leaders. Critics argued that:
- It undermines regional languages
- It forces Hindi in non-Hindi speaking states
- It adds pressure to very young students
Due to the backlash, the government withdrew the two orders related to Hindi in primary schools.
What’s Happening Now?
The Maharashtra government has now formed a committee, led by economist Dr. Narendra Jadhav, to carefully study the issue and suggest how to implement the three-language policy in a balanced and inclusive way.
What Does NEP 2020 Say?
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 recommends that students learn three languages, with at least two being native to India. It doesn’t say which specific language must be chosen — states are allowed to decide based on local context.
In Summary:
- Maharashtra wanted to make Hindi compulsory from Grade 1 in State Board schools.
- This move was based on NEP 2020.
- Facing strong resistance, the decision was rolled back.
- A new committee will now decide how the three-language policy should be implemented in the state.
