The Maharashtra government has issued a Government Resolution (GR) making the use of Marathi mandatory in all government and semi-government offices across the state. According to the directive, employees must communicate in Marathi with all visitors, except those from foreign countries or non-Marathi-speaking states. This decision aims to strengthen the use of Marathi in official communication, ensuring better accessibility for Marathi-speaking citizens in government offices.

The Marathi Language Policy, approved last year, emphasized the preservation, conservation, promotion, and dissemination of the language. As part of this initiative, all government offices, municipal bodies, state corporations, and public institutions must ensure that their computer keyboards and printers display Marathi Devanagari script alongside Roman lettering. Failure to adhere to this rule will be considered official indiscipline, and citizens can file formal complaints against employees violating the directive.

Advantages of the Decision

1. Cultural Preservation: Strengthening Marathi in public administration helps preserve Maharashtra's linguistic and cultural heritage.

2. Ease of Communication: Citizens who speak Marathi can engage with government services more effectively, reducing linguistic barriers.

3. Increased Employment Opportunities: The decision aligns with the Centre's recognition of Marathi as a classical language, boosting academic and research opportunities.

4. Administrative Uniformity: A standardized language in government offices ensures consistency in official documentation and communication.

This landmark decision aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the NDA government's broader vision of taking pride in India's cultural and linguistic diversity. If implemented thoughtfully, such policies can strengthen India's multilingual fabric without alienating non-native speakers.