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The CBSE has issued a circular making the teaching of a “Third Language (R3)” mandatory starting from Class 6, effective from the 2026-27 academic session, and has directed schools to implement this directive within 7 days.

The pedagogical approach in schools is undergoing a transformation, and now, the method of language acquisition is also set to take a new direction. Students will no longer be exposed to just one or two languages, but rather to three. In this regard, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a significant circular addressed to all affiliated schools. The circular explicitly states that teaching a “Third Language (R3)” from Class 6 onwards will be compulsory, and this mandate will come into effect starting from the 2026-27 academic session.

The circular further stipulates that schools which have not yet introduced a third language must implement it within 7 days. In other words, there is no longer any scope for delay. In accordance with the New Education Policy (NEP), exposing children to multiple languages ​​is deemed essential to enable them to comprehend diverse linguistic contexts and communicate more effectively.

Schools May Choose Any Recognized Language

The Board has granted schools the flexibility to select any recognized language of India to serve as the third language. Since textbooks may become available at a later stage, schools are permitted to commence instruction immediately using currently available resources. This implies that there is to be no waiting period; implementation must begin without delay. Schools have also been directed to register details regarding their chosen language with their respective Regional Offices and on the OASIS portal. This step is crucial to ensure that the Board remains informed about which specific language is being taught by each school.

The Chosen Language Will Continue Through Higher Grades

A key provision within the circular is that the language introduced in Class 6 must be continued through to Classes 9 and 10. Consequently, the selection of the language at this foundational stage requires careful and thoughtful consideration, as this decision will have a direct bearing on the students’ future academic trajectory. The Board’s Regional Officers will collect information from schools and conduct verifications to ensure that the regulations have been implemented correctly and in full compliance. In other words, learning should commence not merely on paper, but in reality.

What will children learn through this language?

The objective of this third language is not limited to reading alone, but also encompasses speaking, comprehending, and writing. An “Annexure” has been provided alongside the circular, outlining the specific skills and content that will be taught to the children.

CG-1: Speaking and Comprehension

This module will teach children the nuances of everyday conversation.
Speaking correctly and appropriately
Understanding the meaning of stories, poems, or spoken narratives
Speaking in class, delivering short speeches, or acting as an anchor/host

CG-2: Reading and Comprehension

Children will be taught to read fluently and accurately.
Understanding stories, poems, posters, or instructions
Deriving meaning from written text

CG-3: Writing

Children will learn to express their thoughts and ideas through writing.
Writing about their personal experiences in the form of paragraphs
Composing short letters or invitations