By Kavita Mistry 
In a major policy shift, the Maharashtra government has announced the phased implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 starting 2025–26, with Hindi to become a compulsory third language in Marathi and English medium schools from Class 1 onwards.
The move aligns with NEP’s goal of multilingual learning and the three-language formula, which will be applied progressively to all grades by 2028–29.
Only Two Languages Taught So Far in Marathi, English Mediums
Until now, students in Marathi and English medium schools studied only two languages. The third language—Hindi—was not part of their curriculum. This update brings these schools in line with other mediums that already follow the three-language norm: English, Marathi, and the school’s instructional language.
New Education Structure: 5+3+3+4 Model Begins
Maharashtra is also shifting from the older 10+2+3 system to the 5+3+3+4 model:
- Foundational Stage: 3 years pre-primary + Classes 1–2
- Preparatory Stage: Classes 3–5
- Middle Stage: Classes 6–8
- Secondary Stage: Classes 9–12
The structure is built on five NEP pillars: Access, Equity, Quality, Affordability, and Accountability.
Teacher Training & Localized Curriculum Rollout
The State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) and Balbharati will lead the local curriculum design. Highlights include:
- Bridge courses to ease the transition
- 80% of teachers to be trained in new pedagogical techniques and digital tools by 2025
- Class 1 textbooks already in preparation under the new format
Textbooks will now follow NCERT guidelines, with localized modifications, especially in languages and Social Science.
Policy Supports SDGs, Multilingual India Vision
According to the state’s Deputy Secretary, Tushar Mahajan, the policy aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and aims to create affordable and inclusive education. By strengthening the multilingual base early, Maharashtra is gearing toward a future-ready, equitable education system.