“Marathi Language is Mandatory in All Schools,” Says Education Minister Dada Bhuse

Amid growing debate over the state’s language education policy, Maharashtra Education Minister Dada Bhuse has clarified the government’s stance on the compulsory status of languages in schools. In a press conference held on Tuesday, Bhuse reaffirmed that Marathi will remain a mandatory subject in all schools across all mediums, while Hindi will be offered as a compulsory third language for Classes 1 to 5 in Marathi and English medium schools.

The minister explained that under the new policy, Hindi will be the default third language in Marathi and English medium schools for Classes 1 to 5. However, students will have the freedom to choose another Indian language in place of Hindi. “We have decided to offer the third language based on students’ preferences,” said Bhuse.

To support this multilingual choice, the government will provide subject teachers for alternative languages if at least 20 students per class opt for it. In schools where demand is low, online teaching options will be made available.

“Where 20 or more students request a particular language, teachers will be appointed. In other cases, online and alternative teaching facilities will be arranged,” Bhuse said.

When questioned about schools that have failed to implement Marathi as a compulsory language despite the mandate, Bhuse took a firm stance. “If any school is found not teaching Marathi, action will be taken. After seeking clarification, if they continue to ignore the rules, their recognition will be withdrawn,” he stated.

He also addressed concerns about declining enrollment in municipal and Marathi-medium schools, assuring that necessary steps would be taken to support and grow these institutions.

Bhuse emphasized that the state is not enforcing any language beyond the existing three-language formula, which has been in practice for years. “If you refer to the central government's decision booklet, there is no mention of a language being made mandatory. Why is nobody talking about how Marathi has been made compulsory across all mediums?” he asked.

“We will provide whichever Indian language the students demand as the third language, based on practicality and convenience,” Bhuse concluded.

This clarification comes after the state government faced backlash over its earlier move to make Hindi compulsory from Class 1 in Marathi medium schools. The revised policy appears to strike a balance between linguistic inclusivity, regional identity, and student autonomy.