CBSE 3-Language Policy: To avoid any academic surprise to students of Class 6, the Supreme Court reiterated that CBSE should reconsider its decision to implement the CBSE 3-language policy from this academic year. The Court has asked the Board to grant one-time relaxation to Class 6 students and introduce the third-language parameter from the next academic year.
Adding to this, Justice Joymalya Bagchi said, “From next year, you can have this exercise from 6th standard...2020 the policy was envisaged...it has been put in place in early months of 2026...we are saying put it in early 2027...so that everyone comes to terms with it...give some elbow space. This will be without prejudice to petitioners' contentions regarding policy coming from the date that was notified.”
CBSE To Consider Suggestions
Representing the Board, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati said that the CBSE will consider the Court’s suggestions and respond with a fresh update on the ongoing issue. Bhati requested the bench to allow her some time to come back after taking instructions in the matter. Furthermore, the SC clarified that the suggestions were made without any prejudice to the rights of the contesting parties.
What Is CBSE 3-Language Policy?
Under the CBSE 3-language policy, students from Classes 6 to 10 have to study three languages, including at least two native languages and one other language. Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the framework aims to promote multilingualism and make students acquainted with their regional roots. While the first two languages (R1 and R2) are core board exam subjects, the third language (R3) is evaluated internally by schools with no external board exam pressure. The policy rolls out systematically for the 2026–27 academic year.
Books And Resources To Be Provided Soon
The CBSE has asked Class 9 students to use Class 6 R3 2026–27 edition textbooks for studying their chosen language. The Board said, “To keep the focus on learning and reduce any undue pressure on students, no board examination shall be conducted for R3 at the Class 10 level”. Schools have been asked earlier to reduce undue pressure on students to learn the chosen language. To make things more accessible and easier, there will be no board examination held for R3 language, as confirmed by the Board.