Archive · 2 Jul 2025
Maharashtra Cancels Third Language Plan for Primary Schools
Maharashtra's government changed its mind about making young kids learn a third language in school.
The government had planned for this language starting in first grade, but critics thought it was too early.
Experts believe that kids should focus on the primary languages in the early years.
A new committee is looking at the plan again.
The National Curriculum Framework says the third language is best started in sixth grade.
Maharashtra scrapped its plan to introduce a third language in primary schools.
The state government formed a committee to re-examine the issue.
The National Curriculum Framework (NCF) suggests introducing a third language from Class 6.
Experts worry about overloading students with curriculum.
Maharashtra argued it was giving students in non-Marathi schools the same opportunities.
- Who
- Maharashtra government, Dr. Narendra Jadhav committee, Dhir Jhingran
- What
- Maharashtra scrapped the introduction of a third language in primary schools.
- When
- Announced recently after a previous announcement that schools would teach oral skills in the first two grades.
- Where
- Maharashtra
- Why
- Due to differences in the National Curriculum Framework and concern of overloading children.
Concerns Over Early Introduction
Government's Justification
Language acquisition
Concerns Over Early Introduction
Introducing a third language too early can overload the child.
Government's Justification
The government believes that it is a good decision since many kids are familiar with the language in this region.
Curriculum Compliance
Concerns Over Early Introduction
The state curriculum should follow NCF-SE recommendations.
Government's Justification
The state can make its own changes if it has to, especially when students are familiar with the subject.
- Policy Change
- Third language introduction scrapped
- Committee
- Dr. Narendra Jadhav to re-examine
- NCF Suggestion
- Introduce third language in Class 6
- Education Stage
- Preparatory Stage (Classes 1-5)
- Expert Concern
- Overloading students and reducing curriculum
- State Argument
- Ensuring equal opportunity for non-Marathi students
Sources
Thane News: MNS Advocacy Leads To Marathi Classes In Kendriya Vidyalaya; School Paid More Attention On Hindi, English Earlier
Video: Shopkeeper Refuses To Speak Marathi, MNS Workers Rain Slaps On Him
Maharashtra revokes three-language policy: School education dept issues fresh GR formally cancelling earlier GRs
Athawale hails Maharashtra govt’s decision to withdraw orders on three-language policy