CBSE’s Major Step Toward Educational Reform: Mother Tongue to Become Mandatory Medium of Instruction in Early Classes
New Delhi, May 25, 2025 – In a landmark move to align school education with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued an important directive making mother tongue or regional language the compulsory medium of instruction for students in Classes 1 and 2 across all CBSE-affiliated schools.
Language Mapping and Material Preparation Before School Reopens
CBSE has directed schools to identify the mother tongue of each student through a process called language mapping. All educational materials must be developed accordingly and be ready before the end of the summer vacation. The board emphasized that early education in a language children are most familiar with enhances understanding and learning outcomes.
English No Longer the Default Medium
Until now, English has been the dominant language of instruction in most CBSE schools across the country. However, under the NEP 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023, the board is shifting to a model where education from pre-primary to Class 2 is conducted in a child’s mother tongue, home language, or regional language—collectively termed R1.
Introduction of a Second Language (R2) from Class 3 Onwards
For Classes 3 to 5, schools have the option to either continue teaching in the R1 language or introduce a second language (R2), depending on what best supports the child’s learning and comfort.
Language of Instruction: Flexibility with Local Relevance
CBSE clarified that the instruction should be in the language children understand best. In regions where the state language is more widely spoken and understood by children, schools are allowed to adopt it as the primary language of instruction.
Mathematics Also in the Mother Tongue
The circular also highlighted that subjects like mathematics can be taught in the mother tongue or regional language to enhance comprehension. In Classes 1 and 2, where the primary subjects include two languages and mathematics, the choice of instructional language becomes even more crucial.
NCF Implementation Committees in Every School
All CBSE-affiliated schools must form an “NCF Implementation Committee” by the end of May 2025. This committee will be responsible for identifying student languages, overseeing the translation of textbooks, and developing teaching material accordingly.
Monthly Progress Reports and CBSE Oversight
Starting July 2025, schools will be required to submit monthly progress reports to CBSE. Additionally, CBSE observers may visit schools to monitor implementation and offer support where needed.
Textbooks in 22 Languages and More on the Way
The NCERT has already released textbooks for Classes 1 and 2 in 22 Indian languages. Translation efforts for higher class materials are currently underway.
Special Training for Teachers
To ensure a smooth transition, CBSE has instructed schools to provide specialized training to teachers. This includes multilingual teaching techniques, classroom management, and language-based assessment methods.
Flexibility for Small Schools
Acknowledging the challenges smaller schools may face, CBSE has offered flexibility. Such schools may be allowed additional time to implement the changes, provided they submit a clear timeline and plan for compliance.
Conclusion
This move marks a significant step towards making education more inclusive, accessible, and culturally rooted. By teaching young learners in the language they are most comfortable with, CBSE aims to lay a stronger educational foundation aligned with India’s linguistic diversity.
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