Marathi Made Mandatory in Maharashtra Schools, Staff Should Know Marathi
In a decisive move to preserve Maharashtra’s linguistic heritage, the state government has mandated the inclusion of Marathi as a core subject in all schools, irrespective of board affiliation or medium of instruction. School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse announced on Tuesday that schools must ensure staff have “basic working Marathi” proficiency and that students rigorously engage with the language starting in the 2025-26 academic year.
Marathi earned the prestigious status of a classical language, making its inclusion in school curricula a priority for the Maharashtra government. As per the Maharashtra Compulsory Teaching and Learning of Marathi Language in Schools Act of 2020, Marathi was to be taught across all schools. However, pandemic-related challenges delayed full implementation, allowing temporary concessions such as grading assessments instead of numerical evaluations for the 2023-24 batch.
The concessions will conclude with the 2025-26 academic year. Marks-based assessments for Marathi will be reinstated across CBSE, ICSE, IB, and state board schools. Minister Bhuse emphasized that this move aims to elevate Marathi’s status and ensure students develop deeper proficiency in the language.
Preparation for the Transition
To ensure smooth implementation, schools have been directed to:
- Update curricula to accommodate Marathi as a core subject.
- Appoint faculty proficient in Marathi for effective teaching.
- Prepare staff through language proficiency tests for basic working knowledge of Marathi.
Educationists view this reintroduction of marks-based assessments as a significant step toward placing Marathi on par with other academic subjects. The government is committed to monitoring progress and addressing any challenges during the transition.
ALSO READ | PM Modi’s Grand Roadshow in Visakhapatnam
The shift is expected to encourage students to develop a stronger connection to the state’s cultural and linguistic heritage. The government aims to make Marathi a central part of the academic framework. This initiative seeks to create a generation that values the rich history and traditions of Maharashtra. It also promotes these aspects.
The mandatory inclusion of Marathi as a core subject in Maharashtra schools highlights the state’s dedication. It preserves Maharashtra’s linguistic heritage. This initiative strengthens the role of Marathi in education. It also nurtures a sense of pride among students in their cultural roots.
