CBSE Introduces New Language Policy for Classes 9 and 10
New Language Requirement Sparks Debate
New Delhi: The recent decision by CBSE has ignited discussions among students, parents, and educational institutions. Starting from July 1, 2026, students in grades 9 and 10 will be required to study three languages. The board has clarified that this new language policy aims to promote Indian languages.
Significant Change in Education System
This modification, aligned with the National Education Policy 2020, is viewed as a major advancement in the educational framework. CBSE has instructed schools to begin preparations for new curricula, teaching resources, and language instructors.
Mandatory Language Studies
According to the notification, students in grades 9 and 10 will be required to study three languages, designated as R1, R2, and R3, starting from July 1, 2026. The board has also made it clear that at least two of these languages must be of Indian origin.
Details on the Policy Change
The board indicated that this decision was made following a review of the recently released NCERT curriculum for grades 9 and 10 for the academic year 2026-27. The current academic session commenced in April 2026, but CBSE has stated that a transitional approach will be adopted for implementation.
Conditions for Language Selection
As per the revised language policy, students wishing to study a foreign language can only do so if their other two languages are of Indian origin. A foreign language may also be studied as an additional fourth language.
CBSE has directed all affiliated schools to carefully review the updated curriculum objectives, competencies, and learning outcomes related to language education.
Guidelines for Teaching Resources
The circular emphasized that there is approximately 75 to 80 percent similarity in linguistic competencies such as reading comprehension, oral communication, grammar, and writing skills between secondary and higher secondary education.
Until specific textbooks for R3 become available, students in grades 9 and 10 will utilize the grade 6 R3 textbooks for the 2026-27 academic session. Schools are also encouraged to provide local or state-level literary materials, including poems, short stories, and narrative literature, as supplementary resources.
CBSE stated that detailed guidelines regarding the selection and academic use of supplementary materials will be issued by June 15, 2026.
Interim Measures for Language Teachers
The board acknowledged that some schools may face challenges in arranging qualified teachers for Indian languages during the transition period.
CBSE has permitted schools to utilize flexible arrangements such as inter-school resource sharing through cooperative groups, hybrid teaching support, hiring retired language teachers, and appointing suitably qualified postgraduate teachers.
The board also informed that textbooks for grade 6 R3 in 19 scheduled languages will be made available to schools before July 1, 2026.