Maharashtra to Engage Experts on Hindi as Third Language in Schools

Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Monday that the state will hold off on finalizing its three-language policy until it consults with a broad range of stakeholders. This decision follows significant pushback against the proposal to include Hindi as the third language in Marathi and English medium schools for students in Classes 1 to 5.

Fadnavis chaired a late-night meeting at his official residence in south Mumbai to address the controversy. Attendees included Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, School Education Minister Dada Bhuse, Minister of State Dr. Pankaj Bhoyar, and senior education department officials. The discussion focused on ensuring that Marathi students are not disadvantaged under the National Education Policy (NEP) and exploring alternative approaches.

The government plans to conduct a structured consultation process involving Marathi language scholars, literary figures, political leaders, and other relevant parties. A detailed presentation will be prepared to share with these groups, outlining the status of language policies in other states and addressing concerns raised by opponents of the policy.

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The state’s amended order, issued last week, stated that Hindi would generally serve as the third language in Marathi and English medium schools from Classes 1 to 5. However, schools can opt out if at least 20 students per class choose another Indian language, a provision that has drawn criticism from Marathi language advocates who view it as an indirect imposition of Hindi.

The Konkan Marathi Sahitya Parishad, a literary organization, argued that introducing Hindi as a third language for young students is unfair, given their developmental needs. The group urged the government to prioritize broader consultations with educators, child psychologists, and local communities before moving forward.