Representative AI image
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has made the study of three languages compulsory for Class IX students from July 1. The board has also clarified that there will be no board exam for third language (R3) in class 10th.In a circular issued on May 15, the CBSE said at least two of the three languages should be indigenous Indian languages. This initiative is in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023.“From July 1, 2026, for Class IX, the study of three languages (R1, R2, R3) shall be compulsory, of which at least two languages shall be vernacular Indian languages,” the circular said.It also clarified that there will be no board exam for third language in class X. “All assessments of R3 will be entirely school-based and internal. Students’ performance in R3 will be accurately reflected in the CBSE certificate,” the board said. It further said that no student will be debarred from appearing in class 10th board exams on account of third language.
Three language structure under NEP rules
CBSE said schools can offer any language from its approved list, but there should be at least two Indian languages. Foreign languages may only be taken as a third language or as an optional fourth language depending on the structure of the school.For smooth implementation, the board said Class IX students will temporarily use Class VI textbooks for third language till new secondary level textbooks are introduced. Schools are also asked to include local or state literature to support learning.CBSE has also allowed schools to use interim solutions where there is a shortage of language teachers. These include resource sharing between schools, virtual classes, and engagement of retired teachers or qualified postgraduates.Concessions will be provided on a case-by-case basis for children with special needs (CwSN), schools outside India and foreign students returning to India, the board added.
CBSE Three Language Principle for Class 9: What Important Points Students Can Choose
- Schools can offer any language as a third language from the CBSE approved list of subjects.
- However, at least two of the three languages should be indigenous Indian languages.
- Foreign languages can only be selected in a limited manner.
- Either as a third language (if the first two are Indian languages).
- or as an optional fourth language (if the school offers it).
