The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced that from the academic session 2025-26, which begins on July 1, 2025, students in Class 9 will be required to study three languages. This decision aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes the importance of multilingualism in school education.
Key Changes in the Language Policy
Under the new mandate, students must choose three languages from a list of 13 languages available in the CBSE curriculum. These include Assamese, Bengali, English, Hindi, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu. At least two of these languages must be from the list of Indian languages, promoting regional linguistic diversity.
Implementation from Class 9 Onwards
The policy will be effective for students entering Class 9 in the 2025-26 academic year. The third language can be a foreign language or any other Indian language not already selected. Schools are required to offer at least three languages, ensuring that students have access to a variety of options.
This move is part of CBSE's broader effort to implement NEP 2020 recommendations, which advocate for a flexible and multidisciplinary approach to education. The policy also aims to enhance cognitive development and cultural awareness among students by exposing them to multiple languages.
Reactions and Implications
Education experts have welcomed the decision, stating that learning multiple languages can improve communication skills and broaden career opportunities. However, some schools have expressed concerns about the availability of qualified teachers for less commonly taught languages. CBSE has assured support and resources to help schools adapt to the new requirement.
Parents are advised to consult with their children's schools regarding the language options available and to guide students in making informed choices based on their interests and future academic goals.
