CBSE orders schools to implement 3 language formula in 7 days despite no textbooks

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has made the third language in Class 6 mandatory from the 2026-27 academic session, asking all affiliated schools to begin implementation within the next seven days.

In a fresh circular, the board said the move is urgent and compulsory, leaving little room for delay. Schools have been told to start teaching the third language immediately, even if textbooks are not yet available.

The board said some schools have already begun the process, while the rest must act quickly.

“It has been learnt that many schools have already initiated the implementation of R3 All remaining schools are hereby directed to ensure compliance within 7 days from the date of issuance of this circular,” CBSE said.

The new rule comes as part of the Scheme of Studies 2026-27 and follows the recommendations of the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023, which places strong emphasis on multilingual learning.

THE NEW CBSE RULES

Under the revised language structure, students from Class 6 onwards will now study three languages instead of two.

These languages will be divided into:

R1

R2

R3

In



most cases, this could mean:

One regional or mother tongue

One common language such as Hindi or English

One additional language, which may be Indian or foreign depending on the school

The board has also clarified that the language introduced as R3 in Class 6 will continue to remain the same in higher classes, including Classes 9 and 10.

That means schools will have to make the choice carefully now, as the same language options will later shape students’ secondary-level language study as well.

SCHOOLS ASKED TO START EVEN WITHOUT TEXTBOOKS

One of the most significant parts of the circular is CBSE’s direction to begin teaching the third language without waiting for textbooks.

According to the board, official textbooks for R3 languages listed in the Constitution will be made available shortly. Until then, schools have been asked to use locally available books and learning materials.

“The textbooks for R3 will be made available shortly. However, schools are directed to start teaching R3 from Class 6 immediately, using locally available books/materials,” the circular stated.

The teaching, CBSE said, must still follow the competencies prescribed in NCFSE-2023.