Overview
- The CBSE published detailed implementation guidelines on Monday, June 29, 2026, that require three languages but apply them in phases so current Class X students remain on the two‑language system.
- Students now in Classes VII–IX must add one Indian language as R3 but will have that R3 assessed by schools through internal evaluation and will not face a CBSE board exam for R3 when they reach Class X.
- Pupils entering Class VI in 2026–27 are the first full cohort under the policy and will study three languages with at least two Bhartiya Bhashas and will take a board exam in R3 when they reach Class X around 2030.
- CBSE and NCERT promised grade‑appropriate R3 learning materials including Class 6 textbooks in 22 scheduled Indian languages and allowed flexible staffing measures such as retired teachers, postgraduate hires, inter‑school sharing and virtual teaching to address teacher shortages.
- The guidelines carve out exemptions for Children with Special Needs, CBSE schools abroad and returning foreign students, and they arrive while petitioners have asked the Supreme Court to review readiness on books, teachers and infrastructure.