Marathi Made Compulsory in Maharashtra; Learning Other Languages Optional, Says CM Fadnavis
Government Implements NEP 2020 with Focus on Language Education
NEW DELHI POST, MUMBAI: The Maharashtra government has introduced significant changes to language education under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Saturday that Marathi will remain compulsory for all students in the state, while learning additional languages will be left to personal choice.
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CM Fadnavis Defends Marathi’s Importance
Addressing the media, CM Fadnavis emphasized the non-negotiable status of Marathi in Maharashtra. He expressed surprise at the opposition to Hindi and the growing preference for English, warning that any challenge to Marathi would not be tolerated.
“Marathi language is compulsory in Maharashtra; everyone should learn it. Additionally, if you wish to learn other languages, you can do so. Opposition to Hindi and promotion of English is surprising. If someone opposes Marathi, then it will not be tolerated,” Fadnavis stated.
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Congress Leader Vijay Wadettiwar Opposes the Decision
Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar strongly criticized the move, urging the government not to impose language requirements. He argued that Marathi, as the mother tongue, should not be enforced through coercion.
“You can keep it optional, but you cannot impose it. At whose behest are you trying to impose this language on the state? We consider Marathi our mother tongue, and this third language that is being introduced should not be brought in. There should be no coercion against the rights of the Marathi people — this is our demand,” Wadettiwar said.
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Hindi Made Compulsory as Third Language
Under NEP 2020, the Maharashtra government has mandated Hindi as a third language alongside Marathi and English for students from Class 1 in state board schools. Rahul Ashok Rekhawar, Director of the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), clarified that the decision was made for educational purposes and not influenced by political or community agendas.
“On behalf of the Maharashtra Government, the School Education Department has taken a decision in which teaching Hindi language along with Marathi and English has been made compulsory from class 1 in all the schools of the state board. This decision has been made with all the appointments and their development in view, and the students will definitely benefit from it,” Rekhawar explained.
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