Maharashtra Forms Panel for Three-Language Policy Implementation

Swift Summary

• The Maharashtra government has appointed six members to a committee studying the implementation of the three-language policy in state-run schools.
• Economist and educationist Narendra Jadhav has been named chairperson of this panel amidst opposition to the mandatory inclusion of Hindi in primary education.
• Newly appointed members include academics, a theater personality, a linguist, education experts, and a child psychologist.
• The committee is tasked with submitting its report within three months under the framework of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
• Critics argue that introducing Hindi as a third language at such an early stage contravenes NEP 2020 guidelines stipulating hindi instruction after Class 5.
• Earlier attempts by the State to mandate Hindi from Classes 1 to 5 faced widespread protests from linguistic bodies, parents’ groups, and organizations.This led the government to retract its decision before forming this committee.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The establishment of this committee highlights ongoing tensions between linguistic diversity and education policy standardization in India. While NEP 2020 aims for inclusivity by promoting multilingualism, critics argue implementing Hindi at earlier levels risks sidelining regional identities and goes against stated guidelines allowing flexibility post-Class 5.

the backlash over mandatory Hindi underscores broader cultural sensitivities associated with imposing one language over others in states with strong local linguistic identities like Maharashtra. Obvious discussions on balancing national integrative goals with regional specificities will be key as this debate evolves.Read more: source link not included