India is one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world: with 22 recognized languages in the country and more than 19,500 dialects spoken across its states and communities. Managing that diversity in the classroom has always been a challenge. But now, a bold reform is changing the way India approaches language in education. At the heart of this shift is the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, a sweeping reform that’s asking schools, especially those under the CBSE board, to do something both simple and profound: prioritise the child’s mother tongue. 

Mapping language, strengthening identity 

As part of the NEP rollout, CBSE schools are now required to conduct language mapping: identifying the first languages spoken by students in their classrooms. The goal? To ensure that children can learn in and through the languages they understand best. This isn’t just about language skills: it’s about inclusion, equity, and confidence. When students see their home language reflected in school, they feel that their identity matters. And when learning begins in a familiar tongue, academic outcomes improve.  

A European parallel and a global insight 

Interestingly, a similar approach is used in the European School system, where students typically study: 

• Language 1: their native or strongest language 

• Language 2: often the language of instruction 

• Language 3: an additional foreign language 

The idea has the same origin: maintain cognitive flexibility, honour cultural identity, and prepare children for multilingualism.   

India’s version adds another layer, deep-rooted regional diversity. A student in Telangana might learn in Telugu, English, and Hindi. In Assam, it might be Assamese, Bengali and English. The result is a generation of students who are not only bilingual or trilingual, but cross-culturally agile. 

What this means for Indian families living abroad and due to relocate back 

Families relocating to India often ask us: “Will my child be able to keep up in a multilingual classroom?” The answer, increasingly, is yes – if they maintain these languages and plan for it.    

Indian schools, particularly CBSE-affiliated ones, are adapting to these reforms with care. Whether your child speaks English or Hindi or Tamil, or any other language, the system is being reshaped to respect first languages while building second and third ones. 

Get in touch  

As the world becomes increasingly multilingual, families are navigating more complex educational landscapes. At Edufax, we help families thoughtfully plan their children’s education across more than 60 countries: ensuring continuity, support and a strong foundation for future success. 

Need expert advice on planning your family’s next move? Get in touch with our experts at Edufax Consultancy to learn more.