CBSE schools embrace mother tongue instruction as per NEP. Explore how institutions are overcoming challenges and transforming classrooms across India.
The belief that children learn best in their first language is gaining momentum, both in theory and policy. Under the National Education Policy (NEP), schools have been encouraged to use the mother tongue in early education. This has sparked swift action from top schools across India, not just in rules but in actual classroom practice.
“Schools are now introducing mother tongue instruction in classrooms,” explained Harish Sanduja, Director of Schools and IT at Jaipuria Group of Educational Institutions. “Books, stories, and audio-visual materials in local languages are being rolled out. Teachers are being oriented, and bilingual tools are being developed to ease students into the shift.”
Likewise, Sanamdeep Chadha, Director of Genesis Global School, shared that their school is gradually adopting the change, starting from KG to Class 2. “We began by mapping our students’ language backgrounds. Now, we’re hiring teachers fluent in those languages and testing pilot classes before expanding.”
THE HUMAN RESOURCE HURDLE
A major immediate challenge for schools is staffing — finding teachers fluent in various regional languages and trained in modern methods.
“Hiring teachers for different regional languages is a massive task,” noted Dr. Alka Kapur, Principal of Modern Public School, Shalimar Bagh. “We’re waiting for more guidance from CBSE and upskilling current staff with tech tools and incentives for language training.”
Genesis Global is turning to the community. “We’ve partnered with local training centres for short certification programs and are engaging retired teachers and community elders,” said Chadha. “This brings authenticity into language use in class.”
In Hindi-speaking states like Uttar Pradesh, the issue is less pressing. “We don’t face major teacher recruitment challenges,” said Sanduja. “Ongoing training, tech tools, and help from language experts are helping us prepare.”
NAVIGATING MULTILINGUAL CLASSROOMS
India’s diversity is deeply reflected in its classrooms. Managing multiple languages while ensuring understanding is a daily balancing act.
“At our school, we use a multilingual model where the primary mother tongue and English are used side by side,” said Aditi Misra, Director at DPS 45 Gurgaon and School Director at Dharav High School. “Visual aids, custom worksheets, art-based learning, and peer support form our teaching framework.”
Genesis Global has another approach. “We’re forming flexible groups based on shared language and linking mother tongue lessons with Hindi or English,” said Chadha. “Peer learning and real-world activities help bridge language gaps.”
Sanduja added that simple techniques like pictures and dialect-based grouping help make inclusion natural. “Teachers are already aware of linguistic differences and respect them,” he noted.
BRINGING PARENTS ON BOARD
The shift won’t work without parental involvement. Schools are working to help families understand and embrace this language-first model.
“Mini parent-teacher meets, speaker sessions, and cultural programs with full parent involvement help us build strong bonds,” said Misra. “We’ll now include research on the benefits of mother tongue learning in newsletters and develop language-rich content with families.”
At Genesis Global, parents play an active role. “We organize orientation sessions and share international success stories,” Chadha said. “Some parents even join as resource contributors during the early learning stages.”
“Using folk songs and home assignments fosters strong home-school ties,” said Sanduja.
Rethinking Assessments
Teaching in a new language also demands changes in how students are evaluated.
“In the early years, we focus more on speaking skills and understanding concepts,” Misra said. “For students transferring in, we allow flexible assessment to help them adjust.”
Sanduja backed this view. “Teachers use diagnostic tools and even cultural events for informal evaluation,” he added.
Genesis Global prioritizes continuous evaluation. “We’re using oral, visual, and hands-on assessments. Transfer students get custom language transition profiles,” said Chadha.
LEAVING NO CHILD BEHIND
Since not every child will adjust right away, schools are planning extra support.
“We offer remedial classes, peer help, and extra materials,” said Misra. “Teachers are trained to use bilingual methods in diverse classrooms.”
Genesis Global has also arranged after-school and weekend language classes. “We use the first term to run bridging modules, supported by AV tools, peer mentors, and teacher-guided groups,” Chadha explained.
Sanduja highlighted summer camps and tailored help as key. “Visuals and storytelling help students overcome language hurdles,” he said.
CHANGING WHAT WE TEACH
Switching the instruction language also affects the content.
“Lesson material must be simplified, localized, and culturally relevant,” Misra explained. “We design in-house materials with teacher input.”
Genesis Global collaborates with curriculum experts. “We’re translating NCERT content and using local examples,” added Chadha.
Jaipuria schools are including folk tales and local culture in subjects like Social Science. “Charts and digital content are being reworked in local languages,” said Sanduja.
ENGLISH VS MOTHER TONGUE
While the mother tongue is key in early learning, English still holds importance in senior classes and exams.
“Globalized education still values English,” said Misra. “We must ensure a smooth switch to English later to meet future goals.”
Genesis Global introduces Hindi and English slowly from Grade 2 or 3. “Language labs and bridge programs prepare students for board exams,” said Chadha.
At Jaipuria schools, bilingual teaching starts in middle school. “By high school, our students are ready for English-medium tests,” said Sanduja.
WHAT SCHOOLS NEED
All educators agree that government and board-level backing is essential.
“We need structured support—books, digital materials, and teacher training,” said Kapur.
Chadha emphasized the need for early access to good textbooks, grants, and clearer guidelines.
“Support through regional e-content, assessment guides, and training tools is crucial,” echoed Sanduja.
Schools in India are moving towards a multilingual future. This isn’t just about changing the teaching language—it’s about valuing identities, improving understanding, and building inclusive learning spaces. As these educators demonstrate, the key lies in teamwork, patience, and constant innovation.
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