Class 6 Students to Get Third Language Option Under CBSE: What to Know

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced that it will introduce a third language option for students in Class 6, in line with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The move aims to strengthen multilingual learning from the early years of schooling.

Under the revised structure, Class 6 students will study three languages. As per the guidelines, at least two of these must be Indian languages. English, where offered, will be treated as a foreign language. This means students studying English will need to choose two Indian languages as part of their three-language combination.

Similarly, if a student opts for another foreign language such as French or Spanish, the requirement remains unchanged — two Indian languages will be mandatory alongside the chosen foreign language.

What the Policy States

The three-language approach is a key feature of NEP 2020 and applies to both government and private schools across the country. While the policy outlines broad guidelines, states and regions will have the flexibility to decide which languages are offered, taking into account local needs and preferences.

Students will also have some degree of choice in selecting languages, provided that at least two of the chosen languages are native to India.

The policy further recommends that the mother tongue, home language, or regional language be used as the medium of instruction at least until Class 5, and preferably until Class 8 and beyond.

The National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023 also advises that students continue studying all three languages through Classes 9 and 10 to ensure continuity and develop proficiency.

Background of the Three-Language Formula

The three-language formula was first introduced in the National Education Policy of 1968 and later reaffirmed in the National Education Policy 1986 and NEP 2020. The Centre has clarified that the framework is not legally binding but serves as a guiding principle for states.

The Union government has reiterated that no language will be imposed on any state or individual. According to officials, the objective of the policy is to promote multilingualism while balancing national integration with India’s linguistic diversity.