Maharashtra Mandates Marathi Language in Schools: Strict Measures Announced

Maharashtra's Education Minister Dada Bhuse has declared that the Marathi language will be compulsory for students in classes 1 to 10 across all schools in the state. This initiative aims to promote the Marathi language and honor the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Strict actions will be taken against schools that fail to comply with this mandate. The government is also enhancing the historical content related to Shivaji Maharaj in school textbooks. This decision aligns with the CBSE's new language policy, which will not affect current Class 10 students but will require additional Indian language studies for those opting for foreign languages.

By Ambika Singh Jun 30, 2026, 08:30 IST

Mandatory Marathi Language Education in Maharashtra

Maharashtra Government's Initiative: On Monday, Dada Bhuse, the Education Minister of Maharashtra, declared that the Marathi language will be compulsory for students from classes 1 to 10 in all educational institutions throughout the state. He emphasized that strict penalties will be enforced against schools that fail to comply with this mandate, highlighting the government's dedication to promoting the Marathi language and honoring the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

**Enforcement of Marathi Language Education**
During the recent monsoon session of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, Minister Bhuse reiterated the necessity of teaching Marathi in all state schools. He confirmed that directives have been sent to all educational institutions, and those that do not adhere to this requirement will face stringent actions.

This topic was brought to light by BJP MLA Atul Bhatkhalkar, who raised concerns regarding the lack of compliance among many schools in teaching Marathi as a compulsory subject. Several MLAs voiced their opinions that the fines for non-compliance were insufficient and that the current regulations were not being effectively enforced.

**Commitment to Preserving Marathi Language and Shivaji Maharaj's Legacy**
In response to these issues, Bhuse stated, "The Maharashtra government is entirely devoted to the preservation, promotion, and dissemination of the Marathi language." He announced plans for a statewide inspection initiative to ensure that all schools are implementing the mandatory Marathi education policy.

The minister warned, "Any school or official found violating these regulations during inspections will face strict consequences."

Additionally, Bhuse discussed the enhancement of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's history in school curricula, noting that the content has been significantly increased. Previously, textbooks from other educational boards included only a brief mention of Shivaji Maharaj, but this has now expanded to 22 pages with the approval of the Central Government, allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of the Maratha ruler's life and contributions.

He reaffirmed the state government's resolve to fortify the Marathi language and ensure that students are educated about the illustrious legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. In light of the CBSE's new language policy, Maharashtra is intensifying its enforcement of Marathi education.

Bhuse insisted that all schools must comply with the new regulations. Any institution that neglects to teach Marathi as a mandatory subject or violates the rules will be subject to action.

This decision by the Maharashtra government coincides with the CBSE's announcement of a phased implementation of the three-language formula in schools nationwide. However, the CBSE clarified that this new language policy will not affect current Class 10 students. Furthermore, students in Classes 7, 8, and 9 will not be required to take a third-language examination in the Class 10 board assessments.

According to the CBSE, students who have chosen two foreign languages will now need to learn an additional Indian language. The board has also committed to providing the necessary study materials for this new system in a timely manner.