Implementation of the New Three-Language Formula in CBSE Schools

The Indian School in South Delhi has announced that French will no longer be offered as a language option in Class VI. This change is part of the implementation of the three-language formula for Class 6 students, focusing on Hindi, Sanskrit, and English to promote multilingualism and cultural understanding.

NCFSE and Language Curriculum Changes

• The updated curriculum mandates that a third language (R3) becomes compulsory from the 2026-27 academic session, ensuring students study at least two Indian languages.
• For schools with English as the medium of instruction, English will be the non-native language taught, leaving no room for foreign languages like French or German.
• The NCFSE 2023 aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, requiring a third language in Classes 6-10 and a school-based internal assessment by Class 10 in 2030-31.

Implementation in CBSE Schools

• CBSE has instructed heads of affiliated schools to begin teaching R3 from Class 6 immediately, with locally available books and materials.
• Schools need to finalize their R3 choices and notify CBSE's regional offices, as these will dictate available language options in Classes 9-10.

Challenges and Adaptations

• Schools in various locations are adjusting to these changes, with ITL Public School in Delhi offering regional languages like Punjabi and Tamil as third language options.
• The transition poses challenges, as exemplified by ITL Public School where French and German were initially popular choices among students.
• Some schools plan to offer foreign languages as "club periods" or hobby classes, and are considering online classes to accommodate interested students.

Impact on Foreign Language Teachers and Students

• Foreign language teachers face uncertainty, with some needing to upskill by obtaining qualifications like B.Ed and CTET.
• In Maharashtra, where Marathi is mandatory, the choice of the second Indian language varies, usually between Hindi and Sanskrit.
• Schools like SPM Public English Medium School in Pune view the thrust on Indian languages positively but face dilemmas regarding offering German as a hobby class.

Regional Differences in Implementation

• In Mumbai, schools have had a smoother transition due to prior anticipation of the policy changes.
• Rajhans Vidyalaya in Mumbai plans to offer foreign languages like German or Spanish as additional skill classes in the future, with a current focus on implementing the three-language policy.