Marathi to be Compulsory in All Schools Across Maharashtra, Hindi Optional as Third Language
Mumbai, June 26, 2025: In a significant move to promote regional language and culture, the Maharashtra government has mandated Marathi as a compulsory subject in all schools across the state, regardless of the medium of instruction. The decision, announced by School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse, emphasizes the effective implementation of Marathi language education while providing flexibility for third-language choices.
Key Highlights of the New Language Policy
- Marathi as a Mandatory Subject: All schools—whether English, Hindi, Urdu, or other medium—must teach Marathi as a compulsory subject.
- Third Language Flexibility: While Marathi remains mandatory, Hindi and other Indian languages will be optional as a third language, giving students and schools the freedom to choose.
- Effective Implementation: The state education department will ensure strict adherence to the policy, reinforcing Marathi’s importance in Maharashtra’s academic curriculum.
Why This Move Matters
The decision underscores the state government’s commitment to preserving and promoting Marathi, the official language of Maharashtra. By making it compulsory, the policy aims to strengthen linguistic identity while maintaining inclusivity by allowing other Indian languages as optional third-language subjects.
Minister Bhuse clarified that while Hindi will not be imposed, students can still opt for it or any other Indian language, ensuring a balanced approach to multilingual education.
राज्यात सर्व माध्यमांच्या शाळांमध्ये #मराठी भाषा बंधनकारक विषय म्हणून शिकवण्यात येत असून त्याची प्रभावी अंमलबजावणी करण्यात येणार आहे. तृतीय भाषा म्हणून कोणतीही भाषा बंधनकारक नसून हिंदीसह इतर भारतीय भाषा ऐच्छिक असतील, असे शालेय शिक्षण मंत्री @dadajibhuse यांनी स्पष्ट केले. pic.twitter.com/ZIhEGf4UdX
— MAHARASHTRA DGIPR (@MahaDGIPR) June 26, 2025
Reactions from Educators & Parents
Educational experts have welcomed the move, stating that it will help students connect with Maharashtra’s cultural roots. However, some parents have raised concerns about additional academic pressure, urging the government to ensure a smooth transition.
What’s Next?
The Maharashtra State Education Board will soon release detailed guidelines for schools to implement the new language policy effectively. Training programs for Marathi teachers may also be introduced to maintain high-quality instruction.
