CBSE Makes Three Languages Compulsory for Classes 9-10 from July 2026

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced a significant revision to its language policy, making the study of three languages compulsory for students in Classes 9 and 10, effective from July 1, 2026. This directive, outlined in a circular issued on May 15, 2026, mandates that at least two of these three languages must be native Indian languages. This move is a direct alignment with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023, which advocate for strengthening multilingual education and promoting India's linguistic diversity. A crucial aspect of this updated policy is the assessment of the third language (R3). The CBSE has clarified that there will be no Board examination for the third language at the Class 10 level. Instead, all assessments for R3 will be entirely school-based and internal. While performance in R3 will be duly reflected on the CBSE certificate, the Board has assured that no student will be barred from appearing for the Class 10 Board examinations due to their performance in the third language. This decision aims to reduce academic pressure and shift the focus from rote learning and examination performance to genuine language acquisition and appreciation. Under the revised framework, students will typically designate English as R1 in most schools. If English is chosen as one of the first two languages (R1 or R2), then a foreign language can only be opted for as the third language (R3) if the other two are native Indian languages. Alternatively, a foreign language can be studied as an additional fourth language. The policy intends to ensure that students are exposed to and gain proficiency in at least two Indian languages, thereby fostering a deeper connection with India's rich linguistic heritage. The implementation of this policy for Class 9 students will commence from July 1, 2026, covering the 2026-27 academic session. To facilitate a smooth transition, CBSE has issued guidelines for schools. These include using Class 6 R3 textbooks for Class 9 students initially, until specialized secondary-stage textbooks are introduced. Schools are also advised to supplement the curriculum with regional literature and locally relevant educational material to enhance language learning. Recognizing potential challenges, particularly regarding the availability of qualified language teachers, the CBSE has suggested interim arrangements. Schools can share teachers between institutions, leverage virtual teaching support, or engage retired language teachers or qualified postgraduates. Furthermore, special relaxations and case-by-case exemptions from the two-native-Indian-language requirement will be provided for Children with Special Needs (CwSN) and foreign students returning to India from overseas schools. Schools have been instructed to update their R3 language offerings on the Online Affiliated School Information System (OASIS) portal by June 30, 2026. While the policy is largely seen as a progressive step towards achieving the goals of NEP 2020 by promoting multilingualism and strengthening Indian languages, some school principals have expressed concerns about the suddenness of the announcement. They anticipate challenges in academic planning, potential teacher shortages, and the practicalities of adjusting timetables mid-session. However, the CBSE's proactive measures and transitional guidelines aim to mitigate these difficulties and ensure effective implementation across all affiliated schools in India and abroad. The board is expected to release further detailed guidelines, sample papers, and internal assessment rubrics to assist schools by June 15, 2026. This policy signifies a major educational reform, emphasizing a holistic approach to language learning and cultural preservation within the Indian education system, moving beyond a purely examination-centric focus for the third language.

Frequently Asked Questions

Read Full Story on Quick Digest