The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced a major reform in the school education system by introducing a three-language policy at the secondary level. The initiative is aligned with the goals of the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023.
The new policy is aimed at promoting multilingual learning among students and strengthening their connection with India’s linguistic diversity.
Under the revised framework, students will study three languages, categorised as R1, R2, and R3. The first language (R1) can be any language offered by CBSE. The second language (R2) must be different from R1, while the third language (R3) must be different from both. At least two of these languages must be Indian.
The rollout will begin in a phased manner from the 2026–27 academic session. From that year, Class 6 students will be required to study a third language. The policy will then be extended to higher classes each year, and by the 2030–31 academic session, it will cover students up to Class 10.
CBSE has also stated that students must complete three-language learning at least until Class 8. Failure to pass the third language could make students ineligible to appear for the Class 10 board examinations, underscoring its importance.
For Classes 9 and 10, students will be required to study three distinct languages without repeating the same language at different levels.
Implementation Timeline
| Academic Session | R3 Compulsory For Which Class |
|---|---|
| 2026–27 | Class 6 |
| 2027–28 | Classes 6 and 7 |
| 2028–29 | Classes 6, 7, and 8 |
| 2029–30 | Classes 6, 7, 8, and 9 |
| 2030–31 | Classes 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 |
CBSE has clarified that, for the time being, the same textbook may be used across different language levels, although the syllabus and examination patterns will vary. This is a temporary measure until updated textbooks are developed.
The board also assured that regional languages will continue to receive support. In the interim, textbooks from state boards will be used for regional language subjects in higher classes until new learning materials are introduced.
The reform is being viewed as a significant step toward creating a multilingual education system while promoting Indian languages and cultural diversity.
