Is Hindi Compulsory in CBSE 10th? A Complete Guide to Language Requirements

In the CBSE 10th board exams, the language requirements are divided into two main categories: First Language and Second Language. Here's a brief guide to help you understand the language requirements:

1. English – The First Language:

• English is compulsory for all CBSE students as the First Language.
• Students will have to appear for the English Language and Literature exam, which includes both grammar, writing skills (language) and prose, poetry, and drama (literature).

2. Hindi – The Second Language:

• Hindi is typically compulsory for students in Hindi-speaking regions like North India (e.g., Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar).
• In these regions, Hindi is generally offered as the Second Language and is a required subject for the CBSE 10th exams.

3. Language Options in Non-Hindi-Speaking Regions:

• In non-Hindi-speaking regions like South India, students may choose regional languages (e.g., Tamil, Telugu, Kannada) as their second language instead of Hindi.
• Other language options could include Sanskrit, French, or other foreign languages, depending on the school's curriculum.

4. Third Language (Optional):

• Some schools also offer a third language option, but this is generally optional.
• Common choices for the third language include Sanskrit or French.

In the CBSE 10th board exams, language requirements can be broken down into two main categories: First Language and Second Language. Here's a more detailed explanation of the compulsory subjects:

1. English:

• English is a compulsory subject for all students in the 10th grade, regardless of the stream (Science, Commerce, or Arts).
• The English exam typically consists of two parts: English Language and English Literature. Students study both grammar, writing skills, and reading comprehension in the Language part, and prose, poetry, and drama in the Literature part.
• It is assessed through a theory exam and often a practical exam for internal assessment based on speaking and listening skills, which contributes to the overall grade.

2. Hindi:

• In most CBSE schools, Hindi is usually the Second Language for students, and it is compulsory as well. This applies to students in Hindi-speaking regions like North India, where Hindi is typically the primary regional language.
• However, Hindi is not the only second language option. CBSE allows students to choose from various regional languages depending on their preference and the options available in their school.

Languages Offered as Second Language in CBSE:

• Hindi (often the default language in Hindi-speaking regions).
• Sanskrit (a popular choice for students who opt for classical languages).
• French (in schools that offer foreign language options).
• Punjabi, Kannada, Tamil, Marathi, Telugu, Gujarati, and other regional languages depending on the location.
• Some schools also offer Spanish, German, or other foreign languages.

3. Language Options Based on Region:

• Hindi-Speaking Regions: In schools located in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, etc., Hindi is usually offered as the Second Language in the CBSE curriculum.

• Non-Hindi-Speaking Regions: In states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, West Bengal, and others, regional languages such as Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, or Marathi are often offered as second language options instead of Hindi.

4. Is Hindi Always Compulsory?

• Yes, in many cases, Hindi is a compulsory second language for students in Hindi-speaking regions. However, schools in non-Hindi-speaking regions may offer other languages as an alternative, and students are allowed to choose the language they are most comfortable with.
• For example, a student in Tamil Nadu can opt for Tamil as their second language, and similarly, a student in Kerala can choose Malayalam as their second language.

5. Third Language:

• While English and Hindi (or another second language) are mandatory, many CBSE schools also offer the option to study a third language.
• This third language is usually optional but can be chosen for additional learning. The third language could be Sanskrit, French, German, or any other language that the school offers.
• The third language, if chosen, may or may not be counted for the final board exams, depending on the school’s curriculum, and it may not be mandatory for the student to take the exam in it.

6. Language Policy in Schools:

• Schools are required to follow the CBSE guidelines, which generally mandate a First Language (English) and a Second Language (which could be Hindi or another language).
• Some schools also provide language flexibility for students who wish to pursue a different second language, and in cases of students from non-Hindi-speaking backgrounds, they may be allowed to select a language that’s more aligned with their native region or preference.

7. Grading and Weightage:

• Languages are part of the overall scoring system for 10th grade, and a specific grade or marks are awarded based on the performance in both written exams and internal assessments (for speaking/listening skills).
• English is usually weighted heavily since it is compulsory for all students, while the Second Language (like Hindi or another language) is also important but may carry slightly less weight depending on the student’s choice and school-specific policies.

8. Special Considerations for International Schools or Schools in Foreign Countries:

• In international schools or CBSE schools located in foreign countries, students may have the option of studying English as their First Language and choosing another language like French or Spanish as their Second Language. The curriculum adapts to the needs of the international community while following the overall CBSE structure.