CBSE to Roll Out Three-Language Formula in 2026: An Explainer

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) plans to implement the three-language formula for Class 9 from July 1, 2026. Stemming from the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, this formula encourages learning three languages, two of which must be indigenous, aiming to promote linguistic diversity and unity.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is set to implement the three-language formula for Class 9 students beginning July 1, 2026. Announced in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, this initiative aims to boost linguistic diversity and foster national unity by encouraging students to study three languages, at least two of which are native to India.

The idea of the three-language formula was first put forward by the Education Commission in 1964-66 and later formalized in various education policies under successive Indian governments. The formula seeks to embrace multilingualism at the educational level, allowing states the flexibility to choose languages without forcefully imposing them.

While students at the secondary level can learn additional foreign languages such as Korean, Japanese, French, German, and Spanish, English is classified as a foreign language within this framework, which might limit language choices. The implementation of this policy has not been without controversy, especially in states like Tamil Nadu, which have historically resisted attempts to impose Hindi.