Focus on multilingual learning
The initiative aims to strengthen multilingual education and ensure that every student studies at least two Indian mother tongues, 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.
Trilingual framework under CBSE R3 layout
Under the new system, languages will be organized as:
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R1: Any language offered by CBSE
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R2: A language other than R1
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R3: A third language distinct from R1 and R2
Students must ensure that at least two of the three languages are Indian mother tongue.
Examples of 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)
Implementation will be carried out in a phased manner, starting with Class IX in 2026–2027 and expanding throughout subsequent academic years.
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2026–27: Class IX (transitional) – R3 compulsory
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2027–28: Class IX and X – R3 compulsory
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2028–29 onwards: R3 continues as a mandatory component
Curriculum structure (transition phase)
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Grade IX (2026–27) students will study Grade VI texts at R3 level
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Class X students (2027–28) will follow Class VII level material
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A 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 provides greater flexibility in language selection to reflect the diverse expatriate student population. Schools outside India may be exempted from the requirement to offer two Indian mother tongues, still following the structured R1, R2 and R3 system.
Special provisions will also apply to Children with Special Needs (CwSN), foreign and temporary students and CBSE schools abroad.
Assessment and evaluation
R3 will be assessed through internal school based assessment and will be 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 on the Comprehensive Progress Report.
Implementation challenges
To address implementation challenges, CBSE has suggested shared learning 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 grammar or extensive writing.
CBSE has also outlined key concerns raised by schools and suggested mitigation strategies:
Tthe absence of each: Schools can use Sahodaya centers, digital classrooms, retired or visiting faculty and qualified language specialists.
Curricular load: The R3 course will require only 2–3 periods per week and will focus mainly on speaking and reading skills rather than grammar or extensive writing.
Student engagement: Although there is no Board exam for R3, it remains a compulsory 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 the textbooks prescribed by the CBSE, with any modifications subject to official approval.
CBSE reiterated that R3 remains a compulsory qualifying subject and must be completed for certification, with internal assessment forming the basis of assessment.
