CBSE issues Three-Language Policy guidelines, exempts current class 10 students
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released detailed guidelines for implementing the three-language policy under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, while clarifying that students currently studying in Class 10 will be exempt from the revised framework. The Board said the guidelines are aimed at ensuring a smooth transition and that "no student shall be disadvantaged" because of the policy change.
As part of the transition, the current batch of Class 9 students has been granted a one-time relaxation. They will continue under the revised structure without facing abrupt changes, including flexibility for those already studying two foreign languages alongside one Indian language. The requirement of studying at least two Indian languages will apply prospectively under the phased implementation of the policy.
The guidelines, which come into effect from the 2026-27 academic session, align CBSE's curriculum with NEP 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework. Schools have been directed to implement the revised language scheme while ensuring that students already in the system do not face academic disruption.
CBSE also reiterated that the objective of the policy is to promote multilingual education while providing adequate flexibility during the transition. The Board said schools should ensure proper academic support and communicate the revised language framework clearly to students and parents to facilitate its implementation.
