Marathi to Be a Compulsory Subject in All Schools in Maharashtra from Next Academic Year, Announces Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse
Maharashtra:
Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse confirmed that Marathi will be made a compulsory subject in all schools in Maharashtra, starting from the next academic year. This policy will apply to schools regardless of their board affiliation.
Following his appointment as the Education Minister on December 30, Bhuse held several meetings with key stakeholders, including teachers and representatives from both teaching and non-teaching associations, to gather their opinions on this move. According to sources, the majority of schools are in favor of the change.
The announcement is expected to be officially made in the coming months. The decision comes after Marathi was recognized as a classical language in October of the previous year. Bhuse indicated that the government is committed to ensuring the effective implementation of this policy and will seek expert opinions in the coming months to fine-tune the plan.
Dr. Vasant Kalpande, former Director of Education in Maharashtra, welcomed the initiative, stating that making Marathi compulsory would enhance students' communication skills within the state. However, he also suggested that exceptions might be considered for students from other states who are only in Maharashtra for a few years.
Previously, in 2020, the Maharashtra government had mandated the teaching of Marathi in schools, but its implementation was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Ministry will continue to engage with experts and stakeholders to ensure the successful rollout of this policy in the new academic year.
