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Three-Language Formula in Maharashtra
Context
The Government of Maharashtra recently approved a plan to implement the Three-Language Formula in schools, making Hindi a compulsory third language from Classes 1 to 5, starting from the next academic year.
While this is part of the broader implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, it has sparked strong reactions in the state, especially from language and identity-based groups.
What is the Three-Language Formula?
- The Three-Language Formula was introduced by the Kothari Commission (1964–66) and later adopted in National Policies on Education (1968, 1986, 1992, and 2020).
- As per the formula:
- First language: Mother tongue or regional language (e.g. Marathi in Maharashtra)
- Second language: English or Hindi (depending on region)
- Third language: Hindi or another modern Indian language not already studied
- The aim is to promote multilingualism, national integration, and language equity, while ensuring students learn both their regional language and one link language (usually Hindi or English).
Why is there opposition?
The issue has become sensitive due to concerns about language imposition, regional identity, and autonomy of states in education:
- Marathi identity concerns: Maharashtra has a long-standing tradition of asserting and preserving the Marathi language and culture. There is fear that mandating Hindi may dilute Marathi linguistic space, especially in urban areas like Mumbai.
- Federalism and state rights: Education is on the Concurrent List of the Constitution, but many believe that language policy in schools should be the state’s prerogative.
- Demographic diversity: Unlike some southern states, Maharashtra has a sizeable Hindi-speaking population, especially in Vidarbha, Marathwada, and parts of Mumbai. However, historical movements for a separate Marathi-speaking state (Samyukta Maharashtra Movement) have created a strong sentiment for language-based self-assertion.
- o Samyukta Maharashtra Movement was led to creation of the Marathi-speaking state of Maharashtra in 1960. It was rooted in the demand for a linguistically unified state with Mumbai as capital.
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