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SC directs Rajasthan to introduce Rajasthani in all schools in phased plan
The Supreme Court directed the Rajasthan government to formulate a policy for introducing Rajasthani as a subject in all schools across the state in a phased, progressive manner. It rejected the argument that only Eighth Schedule languages can be taught as additional languages and urged steps to recognise Rajasthani as a local language for education and, gradually, as a medium of instruction.
Why It Matters
The ruling highlights the primacy of mother-tongue education and NEP 2020's aims, potentially influencing similar language-in-education debates elsewhere in India, even where a language is not in the Eighth Schedule.
Timeline
2 Events
Supreme Court directs policy for Rajasthani in schools; compliance and hearings planned
May 12, 2026
A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta directed the Rajasthan government to formulate a policy for introducing Rajasthani as a subject in all schools across the state in a phased, progressive manner. The court rejected the state’s contention that only Eighth Schedule languages can be taught as additional languages and urged steps to recognise Rajasthani as a local or regional language for education and to progressively facilitate its adoption as a medium of instruction, starting at foundational and preparatory levels and expanding to higher levels. The court also directed the state to place a compliance affidavit on record by September 25, 2026 and listed the matter for September 30, 2026.
Rajasthan Assembly passes resolution to include Rajasthani in the Eighth Schedule
August 25, 2003
The Rajasthan Legislative Assembly unanimously passes a resolution on August 25, 2003 seeking the inclusion of Rajasthani in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, reflecting a long-standing demand for formal recognition of the language.