Maharashtra Panel Slams Hindi Push in Primary Schools

MUMBAI: The Language Advisory Committee of Maharashtra has openly challenged the state government’s plan to introduce Hindi as a third language from Class I to V, adding pressure to the ongoing debate around language policy in schools.

This move comes days after the state’s April 16 directive to roll out the National Education Policy (NEP), which mandates a three-language formula, including two Indian languages. The decision triggered strong social media backlash and opposition criticism, especially after similar resistance in Tamil Nadu.

In a letter to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the committee argued the plan lacked academic justification and did not align with the psychological development of young students. They emphasized that teaching three languages from the beginning of schooling could overburden students, and suggested retaining a two-language model—with Marathi remaining compulsory—till Class XII.

Responding to the uproar, CM Fadnavis clarified that Marathi would not be replaced and that Hindi was selected primarily due to the availability of teachers. He added that if schools wished to opt for a different Indian language, they could do so if at least 20 students chose it, either through in-person or online teaching, especially in border districts.

However, the Language Committee criticized the lack of consultation, stating that the SCERT, Pune, should have engaged with them before implementing such policy changes. The committee includes respected professors and linguistic experts.

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