Focus on multilingual learning
The initiative is aimed at strengthening multilingual education and ensuring that every learner studies at least two native Indian languages, supporting the broader goal of promoting India’s linguistic diversity.
CBSE said the rollout will follow a phased implementation model and a structured R1, R2 and R3 framework, giving schools flexibility to choose languages from the approved list.
Three-language framework under CBSE R3 rollout
Under the new system, languages will be organised as:
-
R1: Any language offered by CBSE
-
R2: A language different from R1
-
R3: A third language distinct from both R1 and R2
Students must ensure that at least two of the three languages are native Indian languages.
Example combinations include:
Hindi (R1) + English (R2) + Malayalam (R3)
Telugu (R1) + English (R2) + Sanskrit (R3)
CBSE offers Hindi, English and 42 additional languages, including all Scheduled Languages under the Constitution, along with other Indian and foreign languages.
Phased implementation of R3 (third language)
The implementation will be carried out in a phased manner, beginning with Class IX in 2026–27 and expanding across subsequent academic years.
-
2026–27: Class IX (transitional) – R3 compulsory
-
2027–28: Class IX and X – R3 compulsory
-
2028–29 onwards: R3 continues as a compulsory component
Curriculum structure (transitional phase)
-
Class IX students (2026–27) will study Class VI-level R3 textbooks
-
Class X students (2027–28) will follow Class VII-level materials
-
One local literary text will also be included in each class
CBSE confirmed that R3 textbooks for Class VI will be available by June 2026, while Class IX-level materials for the next batch will be released by December 2026.
UAE schools and exemptions
For CBSE-affiliated schools in the UAE, the R3 framework offers greater flexibility in language selection to reflect the diverse expatriate student population. Schools outside India may be exempt from the requirement of offering two native Indian languages, while still following the structured R1, R2 and R3 system.
Special provisions will also apply for Children with Special Needs (CwSN), foreign and transient students, and CBSE schools abroad.
Assessment and evaluation
R3 will be evaluated through school-based internal assessment and marked as “Qualified/Not Qualified.”
Students who do not qualify will require remediation, and schools are encouraged to include internal grades (A–E) and qualitative feedback in the Holistic Progress Card.
Implementation challenges
To address implementation challenges, CBSE has suggested shared teaching models, digital classrooms, guest faculty and regional academic support systems.
R3 will remain a low-intensity subject, with around 2–3 periods per week, focusing on oral communication, reading and basic fluency rather than extensive grammar or writing.
CBSE has also outlined key concerns raised by schools and suggested mitigation strategies:
Teacher shortage: Schools may use Sahodaya hubs, digital classrooms, retired or guest faculty, and qualified language specialists.
Curriculum load: The R3 course will require only 2–3 periods per week and will focus mainly on oral and reading skills rather than extensive grammar or writing.
Student engagement: Although there is no Board exam for R3, it remains a mandatory qualifying subject.
Compliance and school guidelines
Schools have been directed to update their R3 offerings on the OASIS portal by June 30, 2026 and ensure strict adherence to CBSE-prescribed textbooks, with any modifications subject to official approval.
CBSE reiterated that R3 remains a mandatory qualifying subject and must be completed for the award of certification, with internal assessment forming the basis of evaluation.
