40 C Maharashtra / The Economic Times
The Maharashtra government's language consultation committee has requested Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to reverse the decision mandating Hindi as a third language for students in classes 1 to 5. Chief Laxmikant Deshmukh claimed that the SCERT did not consider their suggestions before implementing the Hindi push.
The Maharashtra government's decision to mandate Hindi as a third language for students in Classes 1 to 5 in Marathi and English-medium schools has sparked controversy. MNS President Raj Thackeray vehemently opposes the move, labeling it an imposition of Hindi and threatening protests. Congress also criticized the decision, viewing it as a threat to 'Marathi asmita'.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has declared Marathi as a mandatory language in the state, aligning with the new education policy's implementation. Fadnavis emphasized the importance of Marathi for everyone in Maharashtra, while also promoting a common communicable language nationwide. His statement follows discussions on language policies and incidents involving harassment of non-Marathi speakers.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah lauded Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's valour at Raigad Fort, emphasizing his ideals inspire India's superpower ambition. Shah highlighted Aurangzeb's defeat and burial in Maharashtra, praising Shivaji's strategic unity. Discussions included a national memorial in Delhi, a law against insulting Shivaji, and a censor board for historical accuracy in films.
Maharashtra cabinet has approved bike taxis with specific conditions. This decision is expected to create 20,000 jobs, including 10,000 in Mumbai. The service is limited to e-bike taxis with a maximum distance of 15 kilometers. Measures for women's safety and fare structure will be implemented. Traditional auto and taxi unions had opposed the move.