Mother tongue first: CBSE directs schools to implement NCF language guidelines, start mapping languages

CBSE has directed all affiliated schools to implement NCF-2023 language guidelines from the 2025–26 academic session. Schools must use the mother tongue or familiar regional language as the medium of instruction at the Foundational and Preparatory Stages. A language mapping exercise, curriculum realignment, and teacher training must be completed by July 2025. The initiative aims to strengthen early literacy and multilingual education, with monthly progress reports and support mechanisms to ensure smooth implementation.