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Maharashtra Mandates Hindi as Third Language in Primary Schools

Starting 2025–26, Hindi will be compulsory for Classes 1–5 in Marathi and English-medium schools under the state's NEP 2020 rollout.

Mumbai, India - February 7, 2019: Translated textbooks in Warli for students at Zilla Parishad school,Khoricha Pada at Saphale near Mumbai, India, on Thursday, February 7, 2019. (Photo by Pramod Thakur/Hindustan Times) (Pramod Thakur/HT Photo)
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According to the State Curriculum Framework for School Education 2024, Hindi will be a compulsory third language for classes 1 to 5 in both Marathi- and English- medium schools. (REPRESENTATIVE PIC)
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Overview

  • The Maharashtra government has issued a resolution making Hindi a mandatory third language for Classes 1 to 5 in Marathi and English-medium schools beginning in the 2025–26 academic year.
  • This policy is part of the phased implementation of the National Education Policy 2020, which also introduces a 5+3+3+4 educational structure to replace the 10+2 model.
  • The State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) and Balbharati are leading the development of a localized curriculum and revised textbooks aligned with national standards.
  • Opposition parties, including Congress and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), have criticized the move as undermining Marathi cultural identity and state autonomy.
  • Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis defended the policy, emphasizing the importance of Hindi as a national communication tool while reaffirming Marathi's primary status in the state.