Maharashtra Schools to Introduce Hindi as Third Language for Classes 1 to 5 from 2025-26
Mumbai, April 17, 2025 — Beginning with the 2025–26 academic session, all Marathi and English-medium schools across Maharashtra will be required to introduce Hindi as a third language for students in Classes 1 to 5. This move aligns with the three-language formula recommended under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and marks a significant shift from the current two-language system followed in these schools.
The Maharashtra School Education Department issued a Government Resolution (GR) on Wednesday, outlining the phased implementation of the revised curriculum. While schools with mediums other than Marathi and English have long followed the three-language policy—typically teaching English, Marathi, and the medium of instruction—this new directive ensures that Marathi and English-medium schools will now follow suit by incorporating Hindi.
The GR also confirms the adoption of NEP’s 5+3+3+4 educational structure, which restructures school education into four stages: foundational (pre-primary to Class 2), preparatory (Classes 3 to 5), middle (Classes 6 to 8), and secondary (Classes 9 to 12). Implementation will begin with Class 1 in 2025.
To support this transition, Balbharati, the state’s textbook development bureau, is revising Class 1 textbooks in accordance with NCERT guidelines, while introducing state-specific modifications in language and social science subjects. Bridge courses will also be introduced to ease students into the new system.
Rahul Rekhawar, Director of SCERT Maharashtra, stated that the preschool curriculum has already been finalized. SCERT will work closely with the Women and Child Welfare Department to facilitate curriculum rollout and training at the anganwadi level.
In another key reform under NEP 2020, schools will implement the Holistic Progress Card (HPC) starting in 2025. The HPC will provide a well-rounded evaluation of students, encompassing academic achievement, personality traits, behavioral development, and extracurricular skills.
This comprehensive education reform aims to strengthen foundational learning, promote multilingualism, and deliver a holistic education experience in line with national standards.
