CBSE 3-Language Policy: Implementation Plan Underway, Centre Tells SC

Last Updated:September 04, 2026, 09:18 IST

CBSE 3-Language Policy: SC stated there was nothing inherently wrong with introducing the three-language policy, but the manner of its implementation needed to be streamlined.

CBSE had directed schools to update their R3 language offerings for Classes 6 to 9 on the OASIS portal by June 30. (Representative Image)

The Centre on Thursday informed the Supreme Court that it was working on suggestions regarding the implementation of the CBSE’s three-language policy, which mandates Class 9 students to study three languages, including at least two native Indian languages.

Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, appearing before a bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, said the CBSE was working out various modalities for implementing the policy and sought additional time, reported PTI.

Taking note of the submission, the Supreme Court deferred the matter by a week.

The court had on August 20 stressed the need to address concerns surrounding the policy, observing that children should not be placed under undue pressure. It said there was nothing inherently wrong with introducing the three-language policy, but the manner of its implementation needed to be streamlined.

The bench had suggested that the CBSE revisit some of the issues and find solutions to potential impediments. One of the concerns highlighted by the court was the need to develop adequate human-resource infrastructure to support the various language options available to students.

On May 27, the Supreme Court agreed to hear a plea challenging the CBSE’s three-language policy and issued notices to the Centre, CBSE and NCERT seeking their responses.

Under a CBSE circular issued on May 15, the study of three languages — R1, R2 and R3 — has been made compulsory for Class 9 students from July 1, 2026. At least two of the three languages must be native Indian languages.

The policy is part of the CBSE’s efforts to align its scheme of studies with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023.

Students opting for a foreign language can choose it only as the third language after studying two native Indian languages, or as an additional fourth language.

“To keep the focus on learning and reduce any undue pressure on students,” the CBSE has said that no board examination will be conducted for R3 at the Class 10 level.

The board also directed schools to update their R3 language offerings for Classes 6 to 9 on the OASIS portal by June 30.

Until dedicated R3 textbooks become available, Class 9 students will use the Class 6 R3 textbooks from the 2026-27 edition for their chosen language.

Quick Answers

Powered by

Ask News18

When will the CBSE 3-language policy fully start?

Under a CBSE circular, the three-language policy was made compulsory for Class 9 students starting from 1 July 2026. However, the Central government has informed the Supreme Court that it is still working on suggestions and modalities for implementing the policy, and the court has noted that the implementation plan needs to be streamlined.

What impact will this policy have on students?

The policy requires Class 9 students to study three languages, including at least two native Indian languages. Students choosing a foreign language can only take it as a third or fourth language. While some parents worry about academic pressure, experts and psychologists suggest the change could offer long-term cognitive and emotional benefits. Additionally, there will be no board examination for the third language in Class 10, which may ease student anxiety.

Powered by

Ask News18

About the Author

Education.Careers Desk

A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, …Read More

Read More