A Landmark Shift in Language Instruction
In a groundbreaking move, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced a new language policy for schools nationwide, ensuring that young learners start their education in a language they understand best. As per a directive issued on May 22, 2025, CBSE-affiliated schools will now adopt the mother tongue or state language as the primary medium of instruction for students from kindergarten to Class 2.
This policy is aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which highlights the benefits of home-language learning in fostering cognitive and emotional growth in early childhood. Research has consistently shown that children grasp concepts more effectively when taught in a familiar language, making this shift a transformative step in India’s education system.
How Will Schools Implement This Change?
To ensure a smooth transition, CBSE has outlined key implementation steps:
- Formation of Committees: Schools must establish a dedicated committee by May 2025 to assess students’ linguistic backgrounds and recommend curriculum adjustments.
- Teacher Training Programs: Educators will undergo specialized training in multilingual education by the end of July 2025.
- Play-Based Learning Approach: At the foundational level, learning will be activity-driven and story-based, utilizing tools such as NCERT’s ‘Jadui Pitara’ and interactive digital materials.
- Monitoring & Compliance: Schools will submit monthly progress reports starting July 2025, and academic observers will conduct periodic inspections to oversee implementation.
State-Specific Adjustments: The Case of Maharashtra
Until now, most CBSE schools in Maharashtra have primarily used English as the medium of instruction, with Hindi as a second language. However, under the new policy, Marathi will become the primary language, while English or Hindi will be introduced as secondary options.
Rajiv Kumar Garg, CBSE city coordinator, explained, “In a cosmopolitan city like Mumbai, balancing Hindi and Marathi will be necessary to accommodate diverse linguistic backgrounds. Schools will now teach the state language alongside English until Class 2, and students will pick a third language from Class 3 onward.”
This adjustment is expected to significantly impact classroom interactions, fostering stronger language foundations while ensuring a seamless transition into multi-language learning.
What This Means for Parents and Students
For parents, this shift means their children will start their education in a language they naturally understand, making learning smoother and more engaging. Students will build fluency in their home language before gradually transitioning to other languages, ensuring better comprehension and literacy skills.
Schools will offer flexible options, especially in cities with diverse populations, allowing parents to choose between Hindi or Marathi based on their family’s preferences.
Looking Ahead: A More Inclusive Learning Environment
By embracing mother tongue-based education, CBSE aims to reduce language barriers and enhance conceptual understanding at the foundational level. Schools are encouraged to integrate innovative teaching materials and focus on interactive, play-driven instruction to maximize student engagement.
With implementation set to begin in July 2025, educators, parents, and policymakers will closely watch how this transformation unfolds. If executed effectively, this policy could redefine early education in India, ensuring that every child receives a strong linguistic foundation before advancing to higher classes.