The Maharashtra government has amended its policy regarding the teaching of Hindi in primary schools following public criticism. The initial decision mandated Hindi as a third language. The revised guidelines, issued on Tuesday, June 17, allow students in Marathi and English-medium schools to choose another Indian language instead of Hindi, under certain conditions.
According to the updated government resolution (GR), schools must provide a teacher for the alternative language if at least 20 students in a class request it. If fewer than 20 students opt for another language, the subject will be taught online. The State Curriculum Framework - School Education 2024, states that Hindi will generally be the third language from Class 1 to 5 in Marathi and English medium schools.
The new policy aims to offer greater linguistic flexibility while maintaining the curriculum's core structure. Schools with mediums other than Marathi and English will continue to teach three languages: the medium of instruction, compulsory Marathi, and English. This structure aligns with the State Curriculum Framework's recommendations.
The original decision to make Hindi mandatory sparked protests in April, with opposition parties like the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) opposing the 'imposition' of Hindi. The State School Education Minister, Dada Bhuse, responded by staying the original order and promising a revised resolution. The new policy reflects a more inclusive approach, allowing linguistic choice while preserving Marathi's status as a compulsory subject.