THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
New Delhi, May 16: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a major revision in the language scheme for Classes 9 and 10, making the study of three languages compulsory from the 2026–27 academic session.
In a circular issued on May 15, the board said students of Classes 9 and 10 will be required to study three languages — R1, R2 and R3 — from July 1, 2026. CBSE has clarified that at least two of these must be native Indian languages.
CBSE Aligns Language Policy With NEP 2020
According to CBSE, the revised structure has been introduced in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023.
The board said the decision followed a review of the newly released NCERT syllabus for Classes 9 and 10 for the academic year 2026–27.
While the current academic session began in April 2026, CBSE said the policy would be implemented through a transitional approach.
Foreign Language Allowed Only With Two Indian Languages
Under the revised guidelines, students opting for a foreign language must ensure that the other two selected languages are native Indian languages.
CBSE also said foreign languages may be studied as an additional fourth language.
The board has directed all affiliated schools to review updated curriculum goals, competencies and learning outcomes related to language education.
Interim Use of Class 6 Textbooks for R3 Language
CBSE stated that until dedicated R3 textbooks are introduced, Class 9 students will use Class 6 R3 textbooks of their chosen language during the 2026–27 academic session.
Schools have also been asked to supplement textbooks with local and state literary material, including poems, short stories and fiction.
Detailed guidelines regarding supplementary learning material will be issued by June 15, 2026.
CBSE Allows Flexible Arrangements for Language Teachers
Acknowledging possible shortages of qualified language teachers, CBSE has permitted schools to adopt temporary measures during the transition period.
These include:
- Inter-school resource sharing through Sahodaya clusters
- Hybrid teaching support
- Engagement of retired language teachers
- Hiring qualified postgraduate teachers
The board also said that Class 6 R3 textbooks in 19 scheduled Indian languages will be made available before July 1, 2026.