Archive · 23 Jun 2025
Maharashtra Minister: Hindi Optional, Marathi Mandatory in Schools
The Maharashtra government is clarifying its language policy in schools.
Marathi is the only mandatory language.
Hindi is an optional third language, and the previous rule making it compulsory for grades 5-8 has been removed.
The government emphasizes student welfare and promotes diverse language learning by offering multiple options.
The minister explains the decision based on historical context and the National Education Policy, and encourages understanding of the policy's rationale.
Maharashtra minister clarifies that only Marathi is mandatory in schools.
Hindi is offered as an optional third language, not a compulsory one.
The government removed the prior requirement for Hindi in Classes 5-8.
Over 15 languages are available as options under the third language choice.
Minister Shelar emphasizes the government's commitment to student welfare and the importance of language diversity.
- Who
- Maharashtra government, Minister Ashish Shelar, students, and parents.
- What
- Clarification of Maharashtra's language policy in schools.
- When
- As of a recent statement by Maharashtra's Cultural Affairs Minister, Ashish Shelar.
- Where
- Maharashtra, India.
- Why
- To address the ongoing debate about the teaching of Hindi as a third language in schools and clarify the government's stance.
- Key Party/Group
- Maharashtra Government
- Main Issue
- Language Policy
- Government Stance
- Marathi is mandatory; Hindi is optional
- Minister
- Ashish Shelar
- Languages Offered
- Marathi, Hindi (optional), and over 15 others
Sources
'Thackeray Back Soon, Instead Of Imposing Marathi…': MNS, Shiv Sena (UBT) Play The Poster Game
"Hindi Not Compulsory": Maharashtra Minister Amid Language Row
Marathi is Maharashtra’s identity, language should be choice, not compulsion: Awhad
"Only Marathi Is Mandatory In Maharashtra Schools, Not Hindi": Minister