Major shift in KV schools: Sanskrit section made compulsory in Classes 6 and 9 from 2026–27

New Delhi: The Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) has mandated that, from the upcoming 2026–27 academic year, all Kendriya Vidyalayas must offer at least one Sanskrit section in Classes 6 and 9. The move is part of the implementation of the three-language policy.

Under the revised structure, Hindi will remain the first language and English the second, while students must choose either Sanskrit or the respective state’s local language—listed in the Constitution’s Eighth Schedule—as the third language.

Students will continue to have the freedom to choose between Sanskrit and the regional language based on their preference. However, a senior official clarified that the requirement to maintain at least one Sanskrit section in every school has been introduced to support the education of children of Central government employees who are frequently transferred.

Section-wise criteria

In schools with a single section per class, separate batches for Sanskrit and the local language may be formed, provided there are at least 15 students opting for each.

In schools with two sections, one section may offer Sanskrit while the other offers the local language.

In schools with three sections, principals may allocate sections based on student strength; however, at least one section must offer Sanskrit.

Students opting for the same third language will be grouped together to ensure smooth classroom instruction.

CBSE guidelines

In line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has made it mandatory for Class 9 students to study three languages, including two Indian languages, effective from 1 July.