Change third language policy for CBSE board exams
The Issue
My child has been tirelessly preparing for their board exams, a crucial period that can shape their future and open new doors for them. However, the imposition of three languages in the board exams has added an overwhelming layer of stress. It's not just our family; countless students across India are struggling to juggle these increased academic demands.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has mandated the study of a third language from classes 6 to 8, but recently, there are concerns being raised about the inclusion of this third language in board examinations. The intention behind its initial implementation was noble, aimed at promoting language diversity and cultural knowledge among students. Yet, its unintended consequence has been to increase the academic burden on students, who are already facing immense pressure to perform well in their core subjects.
Research has shown that reducing unnecessary academic pressure can lead to better overall student well-being, higher engagement in the classroom, and ultimately, improved academic performance. Rather than stretching students thin, CBSE could consider maintaining the third language as part of the curriculum up to class 8, without making it a compulsory component of the board exams.
A more flexible policy could allow students to focus their energy on their primary subjects, while still benefiting from the multilingual education that CBSE envisions. Such a change would not only alleviate undue stress on students but also help them concentrate better on subjects that directly impact their future careers.
We respectfully urge the CBSE to revisit its third language policy for board exams, focusing on fostering a healthier learning environment that truly benefits our young learners. Let us give our students the chance to excel without added stress, and keep the third language as a non-exam subject after class 8.
Join us in our effort to create a more balanced, supportive educational system for our children. Please sign this petition to urge CBSE to reconsider its policy.
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The Issue
My child has been tirelessly preparing for their board exams, a crucial period that can shape their future and open new doors for them. However, the imposition of three languages in the board exams has added an overwhelming layer of stress. It's not just our family; countless students across India are struggling to juggle these increased academic demands.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has mandated the study of a third language from classes 6 to 8, but recently, there are concerns being raised about the inclusion of this third language in board examinations. The intention behind its initial implementation was noble, aimed at promoting language diversity and cultural knowledge among students. Yet, its unintended consequence has been to increase the academic burden on students, who are already facing immense pressure to perform well in their core subjects.
Research has shown that reducing unnecessary academic pressure can lead to better overall student well-being, higher engagement in the classroom, and ultimately, improved academic performance. Rather than stretching students thin, CBSE could consider maintaining the third language as part of the curriculum up to class 8, without making it a compulsory component of the board exams.
A more flexible policy could allow students to focus their energy on their primary subjects, while still benefiting from the multilingual education that CBSE envisions. Such a change would not only alleviate undue stress on students but also help them concentrate better on subjects that directly impact their future careers.
We respectfully urge the CBSE to revisit its third language policy for board exams, focusing on fostering a healthier learning environment that truly benefits our young learners. Let us give our students the chance to excel without added stress, and keep the third language as a non-exam subject after class 8.
Join us in our effort to create a more balanced, supportive educational system for our children. Please sign this petition to urge CBSE to reconsider its policy.
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Petition created on 8 July 2026