Marathi-Medium Schools in Mumbai Drop by Over 100 in a Decade

The number of Marathi-medium schools in Mumbai has fallen sharply over the last ten years. Data from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) education department, submitted to the Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE), shows a drop from 368 schools in 2014-15 to 262 in 2023-24. This is a decline of more than 100 schools.

Interestingly, the Maharashtra government has been making efforts to promote Marathi. The government has made Marathi compulsory in government and semi-government offices. However, as Marathi Language Day approaches on February 27, citizens fear that connection with the native language is weakening.

As per reports, the reason behind this is the changing parental choices. Sources suggest that parents now prefer English-medium education for their children. Those who do not get admission in English-medium schools settle for Marathi as a second option.

It should be noted that overall enrolment in BMC schools has increased in the last three years. This also includes Marathi-medium schools. However, many educators argue that the local government needs to take stronger steps to keep Marathi-medium schools running.

In 2020, the Maharashtra government passed the Maharashtra Compulsory Teaching and Learning of Marathi Language in Schools Act. The law requires all schools, regardless of the board, to teach Marathi.

Earlier this month, the state government proposed a new resolution to make Marathi the spoken language in government and semi-government offices. The move follows the central government’s recognition of Marathi as a "classical language" last year.

In October 2024, the Marathi Language Policy was introduced to further boost the language. On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi opened the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan in Delhi. This event will focus on Marathi literature and culture.

Regardless, citizens have raised concerns. Many parents have complained about the lack of quality Marathi-medium schools in their areas. It has been argued that the government should make sure that every area has good Marathi-medium schools.