Maharashtra Language Committee Presents Final Report to Chief Minister
The language committee, chaired by Narendra Jadhav, has officially submitted its comprehensive final report to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. This submission marks a critical step in addressing the state's ongoing educational reforms and language policy debates.
Beyond Language: A Push for AI and ICT in Schools
In a significant expansion of its mandate, the committee went beyond mere language recommendations. Chairman Narendra Jadhav revealed that alongside the primary report on language policy, a supplementary report was presented. This document advocates for the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and information and communication technology (ICT) into the curriculum from Classes 1 through 12.
"I am confident that the language-related recommendations can be implemented from the coming academic year, starting in June," Jadhav stated. He added, "However, the AI and ICT curriculum may take more time, as the government will need to consult with the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and other central educational bodies."
Presentation to Key Officials and Implementation Timeline
Jadhav made a detailed presentation on the implementation of these recommendations before Chief Minister Fadnavis, School Education Minister Dada Bhuse, and Minister of State for School Education Pankaj Bhoyar. The reports are expected to be considered by the state cabinet within one week, setting the stage for potential policy shifts.
Background: Controversy Over Language Policy
The committee was established in response to intense opposition against the state government's efforts to implement a three-language policy under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This initiative was based on recommendations from the Mashalkar committee, which was tasked with examining NEP implementation in Maharashtra.
The controversy ignited on April 16, 2025, when the state issued a Government Resolution (GR) mandating Hindi as the third language from Class 1. This move sparked widespread criticism from educationists, civil society groups, and political parties, who accused the government of attempting to impose Hindi.
In response, the government issued a second GR on June 17, 2025, stating that if over 20 students in a class opted for a different third language, the state would appoint a teacher for that language. Critics labeled this a "backdoor" attempt at Hindi imposition. Ultimately, on June 29, 2025, the government scrapped both GRs, leading to the formation of the Jadhav committee to reassess the language policy.
Looking Ahead: Educational Reforms in Maharashtra
With the submission of this report, Maharashtra stands at a crossroads in its educational policy. The proposals aim to balance language diversity with technological advancement, potentially reshaping the academic landscape for millions of students. The coming weeks will be crucial as the cabinet reviews the recommendations and charts a path forward for implementation.
