Archive · 4 Nov 2025
Maharashtra's Jadhav Committee: 90% Oppose Compulsory Hindi Till Class 4
Imagine a group of people in Maharashtra were asked about making a language called Hindi a required class for very young children, from first to fourth grade.
Most people, about 90 out of every 100, said 'no'!
They think it's okay to learn Hindi, but it should be a choice and perhaps start later, after fifth grade.
This group, called the Jadhav Committee, is asking everyone what they think to help decide the rules for schools.
They are listening to many people, including important leaders, before they give their final ideas to the government.
They want to make sure their final decision is fair and reflects what people want for their kids' education.
Approximately 90% of respondents in Maharashtra oppose making Hindi compulsory from Class 1 to 4.
The Jadhav Committee is collecting feedback to formulate a language policy aligned with NEP 2020.
Public consultation includes questionnaires, a website, and statewide tours concluding December 2.
MNS chief Raj Thackeray also opposes mandatory Hindi in primary classes, suggesting it as an optional third language after Class 5.
The deadline for the committee's final report has been extended to December 20.
- Who
- The Jadhav Committee, citizens, educators, institutions, and MNS chief Raj Thackeray in Maharashtra
- What
- Preliminary findings show 90% opposition to making Hindi compulsory from Class 1 to 4, with suggestions for it to be optional after Class 5.
- When
- Consultations are ongoing, with the report due by December 20.
- Where
- Maharashtra
- Why
- To gather public opinion for a language policy aligned with the National Education Policy 2020.
Mandatory Hindi in Primary Classes
Optional Hindi After Class 5
Compulsory Hindi Subject
Mandatory Hindi in Primary Classes
Some may advocate for making Hindi compulsory from Class 1 to 4 to ensure widespread knowledge of the language.
Optional Hindi After Class 5
Nearly 90% of respondents and MNS chief Raj Thackeray oppose making Hindi compulsory in primary classes, suggesting it should be optional and introduced after Class 5.
- Committee Chairperson
- Dr Narendra Jadhav
- Committee Objective
- To frame a comprehensive language policy in line with NEP 2020
- Consultation Method
- Public questionnaire, dedicated website, statewide tours
- Current Stage
- Preliminary findings, ongoing consultations
- Report Submission Deadline
- Extended to December 20