Students in Classes 7,8,and 9 at Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) schools can keep studying foreign languages until Class 10,sources from Ministry of Education revealed. This follows confusion over a CBSE rule that said Class 9 students must study three languages,including two native to India,starting July 1 for 2026-27 academic year.
Initial circular sparked concerns among students and parents . Especially those learning languages like French,German,Spanish. Many were told to switch to a native language if they studied English,leading to backlash. About 600,000 students take French classes; around 150,000 study German in India.
Diplomatic missions,especially German Embassy,are unhappy with the changes. An official said talks are ongoing with Indian government about phasing out foreign language instruction in CBSE schools by 2030-31 . French and German embassies also oppose the three-language policy,saying it could hurt foreign language education .
Protests from parents,students,educators have been loud,with some turning to Supreme Court for help. Critics say forcing students to drop foreign languages after years of study creates challenges. Supreme Court recently refused interim relief on implementing three-language policy for Class 9.
Right now,three-language formula applies to students entering Class 6,who must study three languages,two native to India. CBSE likely to pull back its May 15 circular,opting for gradual policy rollout over five years instead of starting 2026-27.
With Ministry of Education's clarification,students in Classes 7,8,9 can relax,knowing they can continue foreign language studies. But situation fluid,more developments expected as CBSE navigates language policy complexities in Indian schools…
