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Maharashtra Mandates Hindi as Third Language in Primary Schools Starting 2025

The state aligns with NEP 2020, introducing Hindi alongside Marathi and English for Classes 1–5, sparking political backlash over linguistic identity.

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 1–5 in Marathi and English medium schools beginning in the 2025–26 academic year.
  • The move is part of the phased implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which also introduces a new 5+3+3+4 education structure to replace the current 10+2 system.
  • The State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) and Balbharati will develop localized curricula and textbooks while training 80% of teachers in updated pedagogical methods by 2025.
  • Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis defended the decision, citing the importance of Hindi as a link language for national communication, while emphasizing Marathi's continued priority in the state.
  • Opposition parties, including the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena and Congress, criticized the policy as an imposition on Marathi linguistic pride and a violation of federal principles.