Marathi to Remain Maharashtra’s Sole Mandatory Language, Says CM Fadnavis
Amid ongoing debates around language, identity, and governance, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has reiterated that Marathi will continue to be the only compulsory language in the state. He assured citizens that the government has no intention of imposing any other language on the people of Maharashtra.
Speaking in the context of discussions on language policy, education, and cultural identity, Fadnavis clarified that Marathi’s mandatory status reflects its deep connection with the state’s heritage, not opposition to other languages. He emphasized that the government is aiming to strike a balance between preserving Marathi pride and respecting India’s linguistic diversity. At the same time, opposition parties, academics, and civil society groups continue to debate how such policies may affect minorities, social harmony, and everyday administration.
No Other Language Will Be Made Compulsory
The Chief Minister stated that within the school education system, Marathi will remain the only compulsory language. No other Indian language will be enforced as mandatory. Decisions regarding which additional languages may be taught, and from which grade, will be taken after the submission of a report by a committee chaired by Dr. Narendra Jadhav.
Fadnavis made these remarks while inaugurating the 99th All India Marathi Literary Conference. He described Marathi not merely as a medium of communication, but as the soul and identity of Maharashtra, which is why its compulsory status will be maintained. He also clarified that while the government respects all Indian languages, it does not plan to make any of them obligatory.
Focus on Protecting and Promoting Marathi
Highlighting the historical importance of Marathi, the Chief Minister recalled that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj had granted Marathi official status in administration through the Rajyavyavhar Kosh. He reaffirmed that the state government remains fully committed to safeguarding and promoting Marathi language, literature, and culture.
Fadnavis also expressed pride in the Centre’s decision, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, to grant Marathi the status of a classical language. He stressed the need to expand the reach of Marathi and strengthen its presence in everyday life. The establishment of Marathi study centers in national institutions, he noted, is an important step toward ensuring the language’s continued growth and relevance.