CBSE Mandates Study of Indian Languages Under New NEP Guidelines

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has made it mandatory for Class 9 students to study three languages, including at least two native Indian languages, as part of its alignment with the National Education Policy 2020. This will start from July 1, 2026.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) announced a significant change in its academic framework, requiring Class 9 students to study three languages, including at least two native Indian languages, starting July 1, 2026. This move aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023.

Students can choose a foreign language only as the third language or as an additional fourth option. The board emphasized no Class 10 Board Examination will include the third language, with assessments being school-based. Schools are required to update their language offerings by June 30.

To address potential teacher shortages for native languages, the CBSE suggested measures such as virtual teaching and using retired teachers. Relaxations will be provided for Children with Special Needs, while foreign students may receive exemptions from the dual native languages requirement.