India, April 12 -- Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced that 2027 will be observed as the bicentenary year of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, with educational and awareness programmes across schools and government institutions.

Following the announcement during the state budget session, the School Education and Sports Department issued a circular on April 10 outlining a year-long plan from April 11, 2026, to April 10, 2027. A state-level committee has been constituted to implement the initiatives.

All government and semi-government offices, along with schools, have been directed to begin the observance with a tribute to Phule on April 11.

Schools have been asked to integrate activities based on Phule's life and work, including readin...