Maharashtra State Board Students (Image used for representation purpose only) | File Photo
The Maharashtra government has introduced a specialised programme to enhance the learning abilities of students in Classes 2 to 5 across all state schools, with a strong emphasis on improving their proficiency in language and mathematics. The initiative has drawn mixed reactions from experts, with some raising concerns regarding teachers’ workload, while others defending the move to “support students without basic literacy skills”.
This initiative, known as ‘NIPUN Maharashtra’, runs from 5 March to 30 June and aims to ensure that at least 75% of students acquire essential reading, writing, and numeracy skills by the academic year 2026-27. During implementation, students’ literacy and numeracy levels will be assessed and recorded via Vidya Samiksha Kendra (VSK). Seven review checkpoints spread across the period of the programme will track progress following which targeted interventions will be provided by teachers.
Schools have been encouraged to utilise vacation periods and after-school sessions to help students meet the required learning benchmarks. This may mean that students will get shorter summer holidays this year.
Mahendra Ganpule, former president of the state headmasters’ association, criticised the move, stating, “Just because the government pays teachers’ salaries does not mean they should be made to work during their holidays. This will put immense pressure not only on teachers but also on students, who will miss out on the opportunity to relax or go on family trips during their vacations.”
On the other hand, Vijay Kombe, president of the Maharashtra state primary teachers’ committee, defended the initiative, clarifying that it is only meant for students who lack basic literacy skills. “This programme is targeted at students who are unable to read letters and numbers. The government has set very minimal learning benchmarks. If we truly wish to improve academically, we must put in the effort. The government’s intention is to strengthen foundational learning, and we should support that.”
Students in Classes 6 to 8 also have the option to participate voluntarily, allowing them to benefit from extended academic support.
Community participation is another key aspect of the initiative, with regular reading and comprehension events titled ‘Chaalu Vachan Ani Varnan’ to be held every fortnight. These events will provide parents and community members with an opportunity to witness students’ progress and contribute to their learning journey.
Schools that successfully meet the learning targets will receive recognition and appreciation certificates, while those facing challenges will be given additional academic and administrative support.
The decision which aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and is part of the broader National Initiative for Proficiency in Reading with Understanding and Numeracy (NIPUN Bharat), follows national and state-level surveys, including the ASER and National Achievement Survey (NAS), which have highlighted significant gaps in foundational learning.
