CBSE flags delay in 3rd language implementation, sets May 31 deadline

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a follow-up notice regarding the implementation of the third language (R3) in Class 6 for the academic session 2026–27. It is in line with the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE-2023). The board highlighted that while many schools have uploaded their chosen R3 languages on the OASIS portal, several institutions are yet to formalise the implementation.

In some cases, the affiliated schools have entered language choices that do not align with policy guidelines. Schools must cross-check and revise their entries at the earliest. CBSE's official notice reads, "The schools that have filled the choices in contradiction to the Policy recommendation are being given another opportunity to modify the details in the OASIS, by 31st May 2026." To ensure smooth rollout, CBSE has directed all affiliated schools to complete the mandatory OASIS updation on or before May 31.

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Textbooks by July 1

Official textbooks for scheduled languages will be made available on the NCERT and CBSE websites before July 1, 2026. For non-scheduled languages, schools have been advised to follow SCERT or other state-recognised study materials.

The notice further reads, "In cases where a school chooses to offer an R3 language that is not a scheduled language of India, the Board advises that such schools may follow the SCERT textbooks or other state-recognised materials, as proposed by CBSE for Classes IX and X as well. Schools opting for such languages must ensure that the curriculum strictly adheres to the competencies prescribed in NCFSE-2023."

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Additionally, CBSE has instructed schools that are yet to start teaching at least two native Indian languages under the R1, R2, R3 framework to begin classes from July 1, 2026. CBSE has urged schools to treat the matter with priority, and added regional offices will monitor compliance and extend necessary support.

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The three-language policy under CBSE requires students to study three languages (R1, R2, and R3) from Class 6 onwards as per the NCFSE 2023. It emphasises learning at least two native Indian languages to promote multilingualism and cultural understanding. The third language (R3) is introduced to enhance linguistic skills and national integration.