Delhi Class IX makes vocational education, third language compulsory

The Delhi Government has revised the Class IX examination and promotion system, making vocational education and a third language compulsory from the current academic session. The Directorate of Education issued a circular on Monday introducing six main subjects: Language-1, Language-2, Mathematics, Science, Social Science, and Vocational Education (Kaushal Vikas). Students will also continue the three-language combination from Class VIII, with one as the third language, assessed only at the school level.

The revised scheme introduces optional advanced-level assessments in Mathematics and Science, carrying 25 marks each, focused on higher-order thinking. These marks will not count for promotion but will be reflected on the marksheet if a student scores at least 50 per cent. The existing Mathematics Basic and Standard structure is discontinued for Class IX from 2026-27 but continues for Class X that year.

Students must secure at least 33 per cent in internal and external assessment in each of the six main subjects, and at least 25 per cent in the annual examination. Those failing up to three subjects can take a compartment exam, others must repeat Class IX. The changes align with the National Education Policy, 2020, and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education, 2023.