Ranchi: CBSE-affiliated private schools in Ranchi are preparing to introduce Santali as a language option from the 2026-27 academic session, following directives from the board’s Ranchi regional office. While DPS Ranchi will introduce the course for Class VI students, other schools are assessing students interest, infrastructure and ways to incorporate Santali into their existing academic framework.DPS Ranchi is seeking details from parents of Class VI students interested in studying the language. The school said the information will be compiled and submitted to CBSE within the stipulated timeline. It will also appoint teachers for the course.A nine-member committee comprising Santali academics, school teachers and a CBSE academic representative has prepared a textbook for the course. The committee includes experts from institutions in Jharkhand and neighbouring West Bengal.The move is also prompting schools to examine how Santali can fit into their existing programmes. Manisha Sharma, a teacher at Sarala Birla Public School, said, “This is new for us, and we are currently finding out how many students could be taken up for the course. We are also looking at the infrastructure required and exploring methods for its inclusion.”She said the school’s language clubs, which introduce students to regional languages, could support the initiative. “These clubs will help us create an environment where students can get exposure to regional languages,” she said.At DAV schools, regional languages are already being introduced through supplementary programmes. Kiran Yadav, principal of DAV Nirja Sahay, said classes in Maithili, Bengali and Santali are conducted for primary students during the school’s post-examination skill camps, though Santali would have to fit into the formal language structure for higher classes.However, she said the formal language structure in higher classes leaves limited room for an additional language. “From Classes I to VIII, Sanskrit is offered as the third language, while Class IX students also have internal examinations in third languages,” Yadav said.Schools are now assessing student demand and academic logistics before deciding how Santali can be incorporated into their programmes.
