Bihar regional languages are coming to all state-run schools. SCERT is preparing books in six: Maithili, Bhojpuri, Magahi, Angika, Bajjika and Surjapuri. Classes 1 and 2 will start first, from 2026-27. Each school uses the one that fits its region.
The plan was reported by PTI on November 3, 2026. Patna Press, Daily Jagran and Newsbytes also carried it. NDTV ran the story too, but CampusFeed could not open its page.
Which Bihar regional languages are now offered?
Bihar will use one regional language in each state-run school. SCERT is preparing books in six languages.
These are Maithili, Bhojpuri, Magahi, Angika, Bajjika and Surjapuri. SCERT is the State Council of Educational Research and Training.
A school uses the one spoken in its own area.
The work falls under the National Education Policy 2020. NEP asks schools to teach in the mother tongue up to Class 5.
How many children and books, and at what cost?
About 40 lakh children study in Classes 1 and 2 in these schools. They will get free books in their regional language.
The state plans to print about 1.2 crore books. The cost is put at about Rs 250 crore.
The books cover Hindi, English and Maths. Local words will help children follow each subject.
Who decides which language a school uses?
The choice is set by the area of the school. Surjapuri is planned for the Seemanchal belt. That belt covers Purnia, Katihar, Kishanganj and Araria.
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Tribal words from Santhali and Oraon may also be used.
Education Minister Mithilesh Tiwari leads the plan. SCERT Director Yatendra Kumar Pal is preparing the books. He said experts and teachers are helping.
Mera bachcha Class 1 mein hai, use kaun si bhasha padhni hogi?
Your child will use one regional language, not all six. The school picks the one spoken in your area. For Seemanchal, that is often Surjapuri.
The change starts with Classes 1 and 2 from 2026-27. Ask the head teacher what your school will use.
What happens for Classes 3 to 5?
Classes 1 and 2 come first, from 2026-27. The same plan will reach Classes 3 to 5 later.
Books for Classes 3 to 5 are still being made. No start date for that stage is fixed yet. CampusFeed could not confirm one.
How will teachers be prepared?
Teachers must handle two languages in class. The state will run orientation workshops for them.
SCERT has held one workshop so far. Two more are planned. The books are being checked with language experts.
Why the rollout could still slip
This part is CampusFeed’s reading, not a reported fact.
The books and the training must be ready by the new session. That is a tight window.
Each school gets only one language, not a free choice of six. Teachers in mixed areas may face more than one mother tongue. Ask your school what it will use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which regional languages is Bihar adding in Classes 1 and 2?
From which classes and year does the plan start?
Will every school teach all six languages?
How many children and books are involved, and at what cost?
Is this compulsory in Bihar government schools?
Last verified: November 5, 2026
Disclaimer: Dates, costs and plans can change without notice. Check with the Bihar Education Department before you act.
