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CBSE to make teaching three languages compulsory from Class IX

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has made it mandatory for students to study three languages from Class IX. This rule will come into effect from July 1.

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May 20, 2026, 9:25 am
in Education

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The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has made the study of three languages mandatory for students from Class IX. This rule will come into effect from July 1. However, at the same time, the CBSE has clarified that there will be no board exams for Class X for third language (and III). In line with the National Education Policy and the National Curriculum Framework, the board has announced a new language policy for students of classes IX and X.

From the academic year 2026-27, it has been made mandatory for students of classes IX and X to study three languages (R-one, R-2 and R-3). The main feature of this new structure is that at least two of the three selected languages must be Indian languages. If a student wants to study a foreign language (such as French or German), it can be chosen as a third language. However, in that case, the other two languages must be Indian. And there is also an opportunity to study foreign languages as a fourth or additional language. The CBSE has said that there will be no board exams on third language in Class X "to retain the concentration of students and reduce undue pressure on them".

The CBSE said the decision was taken after reviewing the new syllabus of NCERT for the academic year 2026-27. Though the current academic year has started in April, the board has directed it to be implemented from July 1 through a "transitional" system. The aim of the board is to increase the importance of Indian language and culture. For now, the sixth grade textbooks will be used for the third language of the ninth grade.

As many as 19 books in Indian Scheduled Castes will be delivered to schools before July 1. In addition to textbooks, popular poems, short stories and novels from local or state should also be included in the curriculum. If schools do not have enough language teachers, it is advisable to appoint retired teachers or share resources with neighbouring schools. Even highly educated graduates can be hired on contract basis. According to education experts, this move of CBSE will increase interest in Indian languages among students and strengthen language skills. However, it remains to be seen how challenging it will be for schools and students to implement this change in the middle.