The Central Government has informed the Supreme Court that it is working on modalities to implement the CBSE's three-language policy, which mandates two native Indian languages for Class 9 students.

  • The Centre is formulating suggestions for the implementation of the CBSE three-language policy.
  • Class 9 students must study three languages, including at least two native Indian languages.
  • Foreign languages can only be taken as a third language or an additional fourth language.
  • The Supreme Court emphasized minimizing academic pressure on students during implementation.

New Delhi: In a significant legal development, the Central Government informed the Supreme Court on Thursday that it is actively working on suggestions regarding the implementation of the CBSE three-language policy. The policy, aimed at aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, mandates that Class 9 students study three languages, including at least two native Indian languages.

Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati appeared before a Bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana. She stated that the CBSE is currently working out various modalities for the smooth execution of the policy and requested additional time. The Supreme Court has deferred the matter by one week.

Read Also:Colombia Earthquake: Hospitals Adapt Strategies to Save Lives Amidst Devastation

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the crux of the legal challenge lies not in the policy itself, but in its execution and the potential burden on students. While the integration of native languages is a cornerstone of the NEP 2020, the transition requires massive human resource infrastructure, including trained language teachers and standardized textbooks.

The challenge is to bridge the gap between linguistic diversity and the logistical reality of school infrastructure.

According to the circular issued by the CBSE on May 15, the rules for foreign languages are strict: a student may opt for a foreign language only after completing two native Indian languages, or as an additional fourth language. This is intended to prioritize regional and national linguistic heritage.

Historical Background

The shift towards a mandatory three-language formula is part of the broader National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023. The goal is to move away from an English-centric model toward a more multilingual approach that fosters cognitive development and cultural connection through native tongues.

Did You Know?: To reduce student stress, CBSE has announced that no board examination will be conducted for the third language (R3) at the Class 10 level.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a student choose a foreign language as their primary language?
No, under the new circular, a foreign language can only be chosen as a third language (after two Indian languages) or as a fourth additional language.

2. Will there be exams for the third language in Class 10?
No, CBSE has clarified that to reduce pressure, no board exam will be held for the R3 language at the Class 10 level.