CBSE Rolls Out NEP 3-Language Curriculum, AI from 2029
CBSE Rolls Out NEP 3-Language Curriculum, AI from 2029
CBSE unveils NEP-aligned reforms: a 3-language model, new Class 10 exam format, advanced papers in Maths and Science, and AI integration beginning 2029.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) announced a sweeping NEP 2020-aligned overhaul of the secondary curriculum and Class 10 exam format. The changes will apply to students entering Class 9 from the 2026–27 academic session, with the first batch facing the new board exam format in 2028. From 2026–27, CBSE will roll out a curriculum featuring a 3-language model, optional advanced papers, and the incorporation of AI concepts from 2029.
Under the new CBSE secondary curriculum, language subjects will be structured into three levels—R1, R2 and R3—as part of a formal three-language model. R1 will be a student’s primary language studied at an advanced level, while R2 will be a different language studied at a comparatively lower level. R3 will be introduced as a compulsory subject from Class 6 in the 2026–27 session and expanded to Class 10 by 2030–31. During the transition, students must study and pass a third language as part of their secondary education. The same language cannot be chosen for both R1 and R2. Two out of these three languages must be native to India. CBSE lists 44 languages covering all Scheduled languages in the Constitution, with major subjects including Hindi, English, French, Nepali, German, Russian, Santhali, Maithili, Dogri and Konkani among others.
From the 2026–27 batch, the 3-language formula will be in place, along with optional advanced papers in Maths and Science, and AI elements slated to begin from 2029. The changes also mark a shift toward differentiated assessments across the R1, R2 and R3 levels, even if textbooks may appear similar at first glance, as each level will have distinct syllabus and assessment standards.
To support the transition, NCERT has announced that NEP-aligned Class 9 textbooks will roll out by April 15, with rollout across CBSE schools planned for the 2026–27 session. Students entering Class 9 in 2026–27 will thus encounter the new textbooks and the updated language requirements as they begin their secondary education.
Overall, the reforms signal a major overhaul of how language learning is structured and assessed in secondary schooling, alongside a reimagined board examination framework and the gradual introduction of AI in the curriculum.
