Three-language study mandatory; CBSE's new rule effective from Class 9.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has made the study of three languages mandatory for students from ninth grade. This rule will take effect from July 1. However, the CBSE has clarified that there will be no board exam for the third language (R-Three) in tenth grade. In line with the National Education Policy and the National Curriculum Framework, the board has announced a new ‘language policy’ for ninth and tenth grade students.

From the 2026-’27 academic year, studying three languages (R-One, R-Two, and R-Three) has been made compulsory for ninth and tenth grade students. The main feature of this new structure is that at least two of the three selected languages must be Indian languages. If a student wishes to study a foreign language (such as French or German), it can be chosen as the third language. In that case, the other two languages must be Indian. There is also the option to study a foreign language as a fourth or additional language. The CBSE has stated that to ‘maintain students’ focus on studies and reduce unnecessary pressure on them,’ no board exam will be conducted for the third language in tenth grade.

At least two of the three selected languages must be Indian languages. If a student wishes to study a foreign language (such as French or German), it can be chosen as the third language.

The CBSE said this decision was made after reviewing the NCERT’s new syllabus for the 2026-’27 academic year. Although the current academic year started in April, the board has instructed that it be implemented from July 1 through a ‘transitional’ or interim arrangement. The board’s goal is to increase emphasis on Indian languages and culture. For now, sixth-grade textbooks will be used for the ninth-grade third language.

Books for 19 Indian scheduled languages will be delivered to schools before July 1. In addition to textbooks, popular local or state poems, short stories, and novels have also been included in the curriculum. If schools lack sufficient language teachers, they have been advised to hire retired teachers or share resources with neighboring schools. Even highly educated graduates can be hired on a contract basis. According to education experts, this step by the CBSE will increase students’ interest in Indian languages and strengthen their linguistic skills. However, it remains to be seen how challenging implementing this change mid-course will be for schools and students.

National Education Policy

The National Education Policy (NEP) of India, first introduced in 1968 and revised in 1986 and 1992, was comprehensively updated in 2020 to replace the previous framework. The NEP 2020 aims to transform India’s education system by emphasizing holistic, multidisciplinary learning, flexibility, and early childhood education, while promoting regional languages and vocational skills. It represents a significant shift from the 10+2 structure to a 5+3+3+4 curriculum model, seeking to make education more inclusive and globally relevant.

National Curriculum Framework

The National Curriculum Framework (NCF) is a key educational guideline in India, first developed in 1975 and revised in 1988, 2000, and most notably in 2005. It provides a comprehensive structure for school education, outlining learning objectives, pedagogical approaches, and assessment methods to promote holistic development. The NCF emphasizes child-centered learning, critical thinking, and the integration of local and global perspectives, shaping curriculum design across the country.

National Education Policy

The National Education Policy (NEP) of India, approved in 2020, is a comprehensive framework that aims to transform the country’s education system by replacing the previous 34-year-old policy. It emphasizes foundational literacy and numeracy,

National Education Policy

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is a comprehensive framework for education in India, replacing the 34-year-old policy from 1986. It aims to transform the country’s education system by emphasizing foundational literacy, multidisciplinary learning, and vocational skills from an early age. The policy introduces significant changes such as a 5+3+3+4 curricular structure, promotion of mother tongue instruction, and increased flexibility in subject choices to foster holistic development.

National Curriculum Framework

The National Curriculum Framework (NCF) is a guiding document in India that outlines the principles, goals, and structure for school education, aiming to foster holistic development and critical thinking. First developed in 1975 and revised in 1988, 2000, and most notably in 2005, the NCF emphasizes child-centered learning, reducing exam stress, and integrating local knowledge with global perspectives. It serves as a key policy tool for shaping curricula and teaching practices across the country.

Three-language study mandatory; CBSE’s new rule effective from Class 9.

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At least two of the three selected languages must be Indian languages. If a student wishes to study a foreign language (such as French or German), it can be chosen as the third language.

National Education Policy

National Curriculum Framework

National Education Policy

National Education Policy

National Curriculum Framework

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