KVS mandates at least one sanskrit section in classes 6 and 9 under new language framework

Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) has mandated the establishment of at least one dedicated Sanskrit section in Classes 6 and 9 across all its schools from the upcoming 2026-27 academic session. This directive, issued in a May 29 circular, reshapes the nationwide third-language framework by ensuring Sanskrit perennial availability while still offering students the option to choose a regional or state language as their third language. The move underscores a renewed national focus on preserving and promoting India's classical linguistic heritage within its prominent central school system. This policy aligns with the broader vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023, both of which advocate for the promotion of Indian languages and multilingualism. KVS highlights that the mandate specifically aims to provide seamless continuity for children of transferable central government employees, ensuring consistent access to Sanskrit education regardless of their posting location. This development also follows the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) recent directive making three languages, including at least two Indian languages, compulsory for Class 9 students from July 1, with foreign languages relegated to an additional option. Historically, language policy in KVS, such as the 2014 controversy involving German and Sanskrit, has often reflected deeper cultural and educational debates, though the current framework emphasizes choice while guaranteeing Sanskrit presence. KVS has already directed schools to collect language preferences from students and parents and to upload this critical data via the Samagam portal to reassess staffing requirements and facilitate smooth implementation. Schools are now tasked with organizing class sections based on these preferences, with guidelines dictating how to accommodate both Sanskrit and regional language choices, ensuring that students opting for the same third language are grouped together. The success of this updated framework will depend on effective resource allocation, teacher availability, and the pedagogical approach adopted to make Sanskrit engaging and relevant, setting a precedent for language instruction within India's federal education landscape.