Telugu Now Compulsory in Telangana Schools | Key Updates for Parents

There has been a lot of discussion in the community about the Telangana government's recent decision to make Telugu a required curriculum in all schools. Now all students pursuing their education in CBSE, ICSE, IB, IGCSE, or state board schools will have to learn Telugu‬ from classes 1 to 10. This decision will be effective from the academic year 2025–26.  

The 2018 Telangana Act, which made the teaching of Telugu compulsory in schools, has not received much attention, as many schools, especially those with international curricula, did not pay much attention to the law in place. It seems that with the recent increase in state enforcement, schools are now more likely to pay attention to this law.

So, what does this mean for you — whether you're a parent of a Class 2 student in Hyderabad or a school principal managing a CBSE curriculum? Let's break it down.

Why Now? The Push Behind the Policy

According to state officials, this isn't just about adding another subject. It's about protecting cultural identity, fostering inclusion, and aligning with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which encourages learning in regional languages.

"Telugu is the language of our soil," said one official from the Telangana education department. "Our children should not grow up without knowing the basics of the language spoken all around them."

Diverse regions like Hyderabad, along with other cities, contain a considerable number of residents from different parts of India, including students ethnically hailing from Hindi, Tamil, Punjabi, or English-speaking families. Telugu's enforceable need aims at narrowing this gap of comprehension by fostering a universal acceptance of the culture of the region.

What's Changing in Schools?

Here's how the policy will be implemented practically:

• Classes 1 to 8: Telugu will be part of the standard academic schedule. Students will be assessed like they are in other subjects.

• Classes 9 and 10: A simplified version of Telugu, known as "Vennela Telugu" (CBSE subject code 089), will be introduced. This is designed specifically for students who are new to the language.

For many students, this will be their first interaction with Telugu beyond street signs or casual greetings. But schools are preparing.

The Reality: A Challenge for Many Schools

The new rule has left many private and international schools scrambling. In some Hyderabad CBSE schools, more than 40% of teachers don't speak Telugu. Hiring new Telugu teachers — and quickly — is now a top priority.

The curriculum and exam formats are also being adjusted. Many schools are planning crash courses, basic language clubs, and extra help sessions to help students catch up.

How The Notebook School Is Preparing

At The Notebook School, we are moving towards a systematic approach which is centered around planning and meeting student needs.

• We have started bringing on board seasoned Telugu teachers.

• Our team is developing lesson plans that are suitable for absolute beginners.

• We will assist higher grade students who are learning Telugu for the first time on an individual level.

With the right approach and understanding, we believe that students will be able to find value in learning a new skill that relates them to the land they reside in.

Final Thoughts

Education shapes not only global competition, but local relevance as well. Induction of compulsory Telugu may sound strange, but it helps children integrate themself into their culture, which aligns with their upbringing.

No matter if you are a parent or a school administrator, the best thing to do is to remain sympathetic, updated, engaged, and participate in the education journey of your child.

As with the rest of the curriculum, at The Notebook School we don't regard the new policy as a compliance burden, but as an innovative opportunity to enrich the experience of each child.