The Central government has defended its three-language policy for CBSE schools in the Supreme Court. An affidavit filed by the government states the policy is crucial for implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The policy aims to improve language skills and multilingual education for secondary students.
Policy Objectives
The government argues that introducing three languages enhances students' learning and creativity. Cognitive studies support this approach. The updated policy covers both global and Indian languages. It ensures students have choice in their language selection. Multilingualism is vital for global readiness and cultural preservation, the government told the court.
Implementation Details
Starting with the academic session 2026-27 , students entering Class 9 will study three languages. The third language will be assessed through internal school evaluations only. The Ministry of Education stated this serves public purposes. These include promoting multilingualism, brain development, nationalism, and protecting Indian languages.
The policy requires teaching at least two Indian languages. This impacts many English-medium schools. Foreign languages can now only be chosen alongside two compulsory Indian languages. Education experts note Sanskrit is a popular third language choice for English-medium students.
The CISCE board confirmed adherence to NEP. It allows its 2,900 affiliated schools to offer foreign languages as a third option. The Supreme Court has not granted interim relief from the policy. This allows the board to proceed with structural implementation.
Language Structure
| Language Level | Requirement Details | Examples |
| Language 1 (R1) | Compulsory Native/Regional Language | Hindi, English, Bengali, Tamil, etc. |
| Language 2 (R2) | Compulsory Second Language (Must be Indian if R1 is English) | |
| Language 3 (R3) | Third Language (Indian or Foreign) | |
| Language 4 (Optional) | Additional Elective | Open choice, including foreign languages |
