CBSE schools in Karnataka seek clarification on implementation of tri-language policy

The Associated Management of Primary and Secondary Schools in Karnataka (KAMS) has raised objections and written to the chairman of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) against the implementation of the three-language policy.

D. Shashikumar, general secretary of KAMS, sought an explanation in this regard within 15 days.

On 26 June, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced the relaxation of the tri-language policy for CBSE Class 7, 8 and 9 students.

He said: “While this policy will be in place for Year 6 students, Year 7, 8 and 9 students can continue to choose the foreign languages ​​they previously studied.”

Mr. Shashikumar said, “Many CBSE schools are already offering Kannada as first or second language. So we want to be clear whether Sanskrit, Hindi and other approved Indian languages ​​can continue to be offered as third language in schools. What should be done if a student has migrated from another state to Karnataka and is in class 6. The student may face language adaptation problems.”

KAMS has sought clarification on the exam pattern that would apply to CBSE schools in the case of trilingual policy in Karnataka. It urged that the Union government and CBSE allow schools to continue with the existing approved language combinations for the current academic year.

The association demanded that the implementation of the circular be suspended until it is harmonized with the Karnataka Kannada Language Studies Act, 2015 and the Kannada Studies Rules, 2017.

It also sought the availability of prescribed textbooks, comprehensive implementation guidelines and stakeholder consultations before implementing the policy.

Published – 27 Jun 2026 21:27 IST