Former UGC chairperson M Jagadesh Kumar backed CBSE’s three-language policy under NEP 2020, calling multilingualism an educational advantage. He said NCF-SE 2023 introduces R1-R3 system with at least two Indian languages. Foreign language can be third or fourth option. R3 is internally assessed with no Class X penalty. CBSE will implement it for Class IX from July 1, 2026.

New Delhi: Former UGC chairperson M Jagadesh Kumar on Friday backed CBSE's three-language scheme, saying multilingualism is often considered an educational advantage and that implementing it across schools in the country will benefit students.

Kumar said the three-language formula is not new and has a lengthy policy history in India.

Under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, it is being implemented with greater emphasis on flexibility, progression and improved student learning outcomes.

"CBSE's three-language scheme must be evaluated within the Framework of the NEP 2020. Multilingualism matters in India, given its rich linguistic diversity," Kumar said in a post on X.