Hindi third language Maharashtra schools introduced under NEP 2020 aims to align education policy with multilingual goals. Learn about rules, criticism, and impact.
Maharashtra to Introduce Hindi as “General Third Language” in Schools (2025–26)
Background & Government Order
The Maharashtra government issued a revised Government Resolution (GR) in June 2025, stating that Hindi will generally be taught as the third language in Marathi and English medium schools for Grades I to V. Although the GR retains an option for students to choose another Indian language, it introduces a 20‑student minimum requirement for the course to be offered—as either an in-person class or via online delivery
Key Provisions
- Applicability: Covers all state-board schools teaching in Marathi or English, from Grades 1–5.
- Language Offering: Hindi is the default third language; alternatives are available only if a class has at least 20 students opting for it
- Instruction Mode: Alternative languages are taught physically when teacher availability matches demand; otherwise, classes will be conducted online .
- Policy Drivers: The decision aligns with the State Curriculum Framework 2024 and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s three-language formula
Public Response & Pushback
Critics, including educationists and Marathi language activists, have termed the GR a “back‑door imposition” of Hindi. They highlight the impracticality of meeting the 20‑student threshold in smaller schools. Political voices like MNS chief Raj Thackeray and other activists argue it threatens the dominance of Marathi and undermines regional identity
Government’s Position
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Education Minister Dada Bhuse defend the move, stating it promotes multilingual proficiency, cognitive growth, and national integration in line with NEP goals. They emphasize that Hindi isn’t compulsory—it’s a default. If students want another language and gather sufficient numbers, that option remains viable
Exam Relevance
This policy shift is significant for aspirants preparing for government roles—from teachers to civil services—since it reflects Andhra Pradesh’s evolving language policies, state autonomy under NEP 2020, and the cultural politics around Indian education systems.
Why This News Matters for Exam Aspirants
Alignment with National Education Policy
The NEP 2020’s three-language formula is central to current educational reforms. Understanding how Maharashtra has implemented it—and the resulting controversy—offers insight into policy-practice dynamics in Indian education—valuable for both teaching and public administration exams.
Language Politics in Federal India
The backlash against Hindi’s inclusion highlights the tension between regional and national identities. Civil service and police officer aspirants must be well-versed in these socio-cultural nuances, as they influence public sentiment and administrative decisions.
Governance & Policy Diffusion
The GR exemplifies how states operationalize central guidelines—and the importance of threshold provisions (like the 20-student rule). This is a practical example for understanding policy adoption, stakeholder consultation, and public feedback in state governance.
Competitive Exams Context
In UPSC, MPSC, SSC, and other exams, questions on educational reforms, three-language formula, federalism, and public response frequently appear. This case study adds depth to such answers.
Curriculum & Teaching Implications
Teacher aspirants should note how foundational language policy changes (starting from Std I) impact curriculum planning, resource allocation, and pedagogical approaches in classrooms.
Historical Context: Language & Education in Maharashtra
Three‑Language Formula & NEP 2020
NEP 2020 introduced a three-language formula—mandating education in the mother tongue or regional language, Hindi or another Indian language, and English—aiming to promote multilingual competence from early schooling. Maharashtra’s recent policy is a state-level implementation of this central principle
Earlier Backtracking
In April 2025, Maharashtra initially mandated Hindi as the third language from Std I, triggering strong opposition. Activists and regional leaders forced a rollback. The June GR reintroduced Hindi as the “general” third language with conditions—a strategic adjustment backed by state authorities
Regional Identity & Language Activism
Since the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement, Marathi has symbolized regional pride. State-level policies perceived as threatening Marathi’s status have always triggered strong local reactions. This pattern continues with the current debate .
Key Takeaways from “Maharashtra’s Third-Language GR”
| # | Key takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1. | Maharashtra’s revised GR states Hindi will generally be the third language in Grades 1–5 in Marathi and English medium schools |
| 2. | Students may choose an alternative Indian language only if ≥20 students from the same class opt for it . |
| 3. | Alternative languages are to be taught either in-person or online based on teacher availability . |
| 4. | Critics argue this 20-student condition effectively cements Hindi as the default, undermining Marathi language priorities . |
| 5. | Government defends the policy as part of NEP 2020’s multilingual objectives, emphasizing that Hindi is not compulsory . |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Hindi compulsory in Maharashtra schools from Class 1?
No, Hindi is not compulsory but is introduced as the “general” third language. Students can opt for other Indian languages if a minimum of 20 students choose the alternative language in a class.
2. Which schools are impacted by this decision?
This decision applies to all Marathi and English medium schools affiliated with the Maharashtra state board, specifically for students in Classes 1 to 5.
3. What is the three-language formula under NEP 2020?
The three-language formula suggests teaching students in three languages: the regional/mother tongue, Hindi or another Indian language, and English. The aim is to promote multilingualism and national integration.
4. What are the major concerns raised by critics?
Critics argue that the GR indirectly enforces Hindi due to the 20-student minimum requirement for other languages. They view this as detrimental to the prominence of Marathi and regional linguistic diversity.
5. How will alternative language instruction be managed?
If 20 or more students in a class opt for a language other than Hindi, and a teacher is available, classes will be conducted offline. If not, the teaching will be arranged through online platforms.
Some Important Current Affairs Links
