Education Ministry Confirms Continued Foreign Language Learning for Students in Grades 7-9

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has clarified that students will not be required to switch to an additional native language until they have completed Class 10. This announcement comes over a month after CBSE released guidelines stating that starting from the 2026-27 academic year, students in Class 9 must study three languages, with at least two of these being native to India.

This policy aims to promote linguistic diversity and cultural awareness among students, encouraging them to engage with regional languages alongside their primary language of instruction. The clarification indicates that while the introduction of mandatory third language instruction will take place in Class 9, students can continue with their current language curriculum until they complete their secondary education.

As the implementation date approaches, educators and parents are encouraged to prepare for these changes, which are part of a broader initiative to enhance language proficiency and preserve Indias rich linguistic heritage in the contemporary educational framework.