The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a fresh circular making it mandatory for schools to introduce a third language from Class 6, starting the 2026–27 academic session.
In the circular released on April 9, the board termed the directive “urgent and mandatory” and asked schools to implement it within seven days. While many institutions have already adopted the system, CBSE said the remaining schools must begin immediately.
Even in cases where textbooks are not yet available, schools have been instructed not to delay implementation and instead use locally available books or study material to start teaching the third language.
The board has also directed schools to formally declare the language they have selected and update the details on the OASIS portal. Regional CBSE offices will monitor compliance to ensure the rule is properly followed.
Importantly, the language chosen in Class 6 will continue through Classes 9 and 10, meaning students will not have the option to switch later. Schools have been advised to make this decision carefully, considering its long-term impact on students.
The move is aligned with the National Curriculum Framework 2023, which promotes the three-language formula. Under this framework, students learn their mother tongue or regional language, a second language such as Hindi or English, and an additional third language.
CBSE said the objective is to strengthen language skills, promote cultural understanding, and improve communication abilities. The board has urged schools to treat the directive with seriousness and implement it without delay.
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