In a move that appears to backtrack yet simultaneously assert its earlier position, the Maharashtra government has revised its controversial notification on making Hindi a compulsory third language in primary schools. The revised order clarifies that while Hindi is no longer mandatory, it will continue to be the default third language taught from Classes I to V in most schools—unless a group of at least 20 students opts for a different language. The notification has reignited the debate on “Hindi imposition,” drawing criticism from regional language advocates and educators alike.
Backlash Forces Rollback, But New Conditions Raise Eyebrows
Earlier in April, the Maharashtra School Education Department had declared Hindi as a compulsory third language in all Marathi and English-medium schools. The decision triggered strong protests from the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi and even from Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, usually seen as an ally of the ruling BJP. Within days, School Education Minister Dada Bhuse announced that the decision was being reconsidered. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis followed up by stating that Marathi alone would remain compulsory.
However, the revised notification, issued Tuesday, subtly reinstates Hindi by stating it will be the “generally” taught third language. Though not labeled compulsory, Hindi will effectively become the standard unless students actively choose another language. The catch: at least 20 students must opt for an alternative language for it to be offered. And even then, if the school fails to provide a teacher, the subject will be taught online—a move seen by critics as discouraging choice.
Educators Warn of Practical Challenges
Former Maharashtra education board chairperson Vasant Kalpande criticized the 20-student threshold, calling it unrealistic. He also warned that offering online classes instead of hiring language teachers could deter students from opting for other languages. “Marathi and Hindi have similar scripts, but for young learners, managing both can be overwhelming.
The state’s updated stance is rooted in the central government’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which advocates a three-language policy. However, non-Hindi speaking states like Tamil Nadu have resisted the policy, arguing it unfairly prioritizes Hindi and undermines regional languages. Tamil Nadu continues to follow its two-language system, citing its effectiveness and rejecting what it calls forced cultural integration.
Despite government assurances that the NEP does not mandate Hindi, the Maharashtra notification has intensified concerns that policy implementations are skewed toward Hindi dominance, especially in non-Hindi speaking regions.
