By the Education Karnataka Editorial Team · Last updated: November 2026
Quick answer: The Kannada Language Learning Act, 2015, and its rules require schools in Karnataka, including CBSE and ICSE schools, to teach Kannada as a language in Classes 1 to 10. A group of parents has challenged how the Act applies to CBSE and CISCE schools in the Karnataka High Court, and the matter was still pending when we last checked. In practice, many CBSE and ICSE schools in Karnataka already teach Kannada.
Key takeaways
- State law requires Kannada to be taught in schools in Karnataka, including CBSE and ICSE schools.
- Its application to CBSE and CISCE schools is under legal challenge in the High Court.
- Students joining from outside Karnataka have been given a basic-level syllabus under government orders.
- Ask each school how Kannada is taught and at what level.
What does the law say?
The Kannada Language Learning Act, 2015, aims for all students in Karnataka to learn Kannada during their school years. Government orders and rules issued under it set out how schools must offer the language. Under later rules governing CBSE and CISCE schools (the no-objection-certificate rules of 2022), schools affiliated to these boards must teach Kannada as a second or third language.
What about students from other states?
Government orders have provided for students who join a Karnataka school in later classes from outside the state to begin with a basic-level Kannada syllabus rather than the regular class-level syllabus. Ask the school how it supports new learners.
The legal challenge
Parents of children in CBSE and CISCE schools filed a petition in the Karnataka High Court questioning whether the Act and rules can apply to schools affiliated to these national boards. In 2025, the High Court asked the state government to respond. Parents should follow official updates, as the outcome could affect how the rules apply.
Questions to ask a school
- Is Kannada taught as a first, second or third language?
- At what level do new students from outside Karnataka begin?
- How many periods per week are given to Kannada?
- Does Kannada carry marks in board exams for your class?
Why learning Kannada can help
- Easier daily life and friendships in Karnataka.
- A connection with the state’s culture and literature.
- Helpful for students who later study or work in Karnataka.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kannada compulsory in CBSE schools in Karnataka? State law and rules require it, but the requirement for CBSE and CISCE schools is under challenge in the High Court. Most such schools in Karnataka currently offer Kannada.
My child is moving from another state. Will they struggle? Many schools offer a basic-level syllabus and extra support for new learners. Ask the school what support it provides.
Can my child take Hindi instead of Kannada? Language combinations vary by school and board. Ask the school which combinations are allowed.
Is Kannada a board exam subject in CBSE? It depends on the language scheme the school follows. Ask the school.
Where can I find the latest rules? Check notifications from Karnataka’s School Education Department and official news on the High Court case.
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