CBSE and its ‘Mother Tongue First’ move: Bridging learning gaps or widening India’s academic divide?

The CBSE has directed all affiliated schools to implement the mother-tongue-first policy from 2025–26, aligning with NCF-2023. While this aims to enhance early learning and equity through regional language instruction, critics warn of practical hurdles in India’s linguistically diverse classrooms. The success of this reform hinges on careful execution, not just ideological appeal.