CBSE allows existing Classes 7 & 9 to continue current foreign language duo

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has clarified that students currently studying in Classes 7, 8 and 9 will be allowed to continue with their existing language combinations until they complete their Class 10 board examinations. The clarification comes after concerns over the implementation of the three-language policy under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. 

The revised approach ensures that students already enrolled under the existing curriculum, including those studying two foreign languages, will not be required to alter their subject combinations midway through their academic journey. According to official estimates, only around 1.3 per cent of CBSE students fall into this category.

The new language policy will apply only to students entering Class 6 from the current academic session. Under the revised framework, students in Classes 6 to 8 will study three languages, with at least two of them being Indian languages. Foreign languages will continue to remain an option and may be chosen as an additional or fourth language.

CBSE is expected to issue a revised notification after consultations with its governing council to remove ambiguity regarding the transition from the old to the new system.

The three-language framework classifies subjects into three categories: R1, R2, and R3. R1 represents the primary language of instruction, usually English or Hindi. R2 is a second language different from R1, while R3 is a third language distinct from both. Among these three, at least two must be Indian languages.

The Ministry of Education has also stated that textbooks in 22 Indian languages will be made available in time for implementation. CBSE has been tasked with ensuring the availability of teachers and other necessary resources, addressing concerns related to infrastructure, teaching staff, and learning materials as schools prepare to implement the revised language policy.