Polity17 May 2026📖 2 min read

CBSE Mandates Three Languages for Class 9 & 10: New Education Policy Framework

CBSE's new framework makes three languages, including two Indian languages, mandatory for classes 9 and 10.

Summary of News

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced a new framework making it compulsory for students in classes 9 and 10 to study three languages. Out of these three, at least two languages must be Indian. This move is part of the implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to promote multilingualism and strengthen the study of Indian languages. The policy change has drawn criticism from some opposition parties, who argue it could create challenges for students and the education system. This mandate reflects a broader push to integrate cultural and lingui

Key Points for Exam

Students in CBSE classes 9 and 10 must now study three languages.
A minimum of two out of these three languages must be Indian languages.
The new framework is aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
The policy aims to promote multilingualism and the study of Indian languages.
The mandate has faced criticism from some political parties.

Important Keywords Explained

CBSEorganization

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is a national level board of education in India for public and private schools, controlled and managed by the Union Government of India. It was established in 1929. Its primary function is to conduct examinations for Class 10 and Class 12 and to prescribe curriculum for schools.

National Education Policy (NEP) 2020concept

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is a comprehensive framework for education in India, approved by the Union Cabinet on 29 July 2020. It aims to transform India's education system from school to college level. Key goals include universal access to education, promoting multilingualism, and skill development.

Additional Facts & Context

1The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 replaced the 1986 National Policy on Education.

2NEP 2020 recommends a 5+3+3+4 curricular structure for school education.

3The policy emphasizes mother tongue/local language/regional language as the medium of instruction till at least Grade 5.

4CBSE is one of the largest education boards in India, with over 27,000 affiliated schools.

Examiner's Tip

Exams often test key provisions of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, especially those related to language, curriculum structure, and educational reforms.

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Memory Trick

Remember 'NEP 2020 = New Education Policy, 3 Languages, 2 Indian'. The '3' in 'NEP' can remind you of '3 languages'.

Connected Concepts / Topics

#CBSE #National Education Policy 2020 #Language Policy #Education Reform #Indian Languages