CBSE Three-Language Formula: Starting from the current session—specifically the academic session 2026-27—three languages ​​will be taught in schools affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). Consequently, from this very session, students in Class 6 and above will study three languages. The CBSE has issued directives to all schools to introduce a third language (R3) at the Class 6 level. 

The Board has clarified that this decision was taken under the recently released 'Scheme of Studies,' which forms an integral part of the Three-Language Formula being implemented in accordance with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The CBSE stated that the objective behind this decision is to strengthen students' linguistic comprehension and knowledge. However, school principals remain in a state of confusion regarding this decision by the CBSE. Principals are perplexed due to the lack of clarity regarding the specific category assigned to the English language.

Let us delve into this entire matter in detail to understand the specific confusion school principals are facing regarding the categorization of English amidst the implementation of the Three-Language Formula.

Students Must Study Three Languages; Two Indian Languages ​​Are Mandatory
Effective from the new academic session 2026-27, the CBSE has implemented the recommendations outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE). According to the new regulations, students in Classes 6 through 10 will now be required to study three languages. A crucial aspect of this mandate is that two of these three languages ​​must be Indian languages. The primary objective behind enforcing this rule is to foster among students a deeper understanding of and appreciation for their own culture and mother tongue. Additionally, students will be required to study one foreign language.

Is English a Foreign or an Indian Language? Schools Remain Confused
Under the CBSE's Three-Language Formula, students must study two Indian languages ​​and one foreign language. However, schools currently lack clarity regarding whether English is to be categorized as a foreign language within this framework. Regarding this matter, Dr. S.V. Sharma, Principal of Vidya Bal Bhawan Senior Secondary School (Mayur Vihar Phase 3), states: "Until now, we have been teaching Hindi, English, and Sanskrit; however, we currently lack clarity on which language is to be designated as R1, which as R2, and which ones will fall under R3."

He further explained: "We only became aware of this after the CBSE Chairman mentioned it; otherwise, the CBSE has not yet sent anything to us in writing. As for the matter of Indian languages—given that India is home to a multitude of languages—how are we expected to offer specific languages ​​to students based on their individual preferences? We simply do not possess a sufficient number of teachers to do so. If students request a diverse range of languages, how are we supposed to teach them? The situation will only become clear once the CBSE issues a written directive."

Meanwhile, Manisha Joshi, Principal of Mother Mary’s School, notes that she was present on the very day the CBSE released the new curriculum. She recounted that the CBSE Chairman provided information regarding the changes during that event, following which she downloaded the curriculum document; however, it remains unclear within the document whether English is to be categorized as a 'Foreign Language.' All schools are currently submitting their queries to the CBSE; the Board may issue further clarifications in response to these inquiries. Since the Chairman made the announcement just a few days ago, further updates or guidelines will likely be released shortly.

**Session Begins Amidst Confusion**

All in all, schools currently lack complete clarity on the matter and are awaiting a formal circular from the CBSE. Although the academic session has already commenced—with students having purchased their textbooks and classes already underway—there remains a distinct lack of clarity regarding the implementation of the 'Three-Language Formula.' While everyone is aware that the formula is to be implemented, precisely *how* it is to be executed remains an open question.

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