Karnataka Introduces Grading System for SSLC Third Language; Total Marks Reduced to 525
Third language scores will no longer affect overall results, but exams remain compulsory.
The Karnataka government has announced a major change in the SSLC (Class 10) examination system, replacing marks for the third language with a grading system starting this academic year.
School Education and Literacy Minister Madhu Bangarappa said the decision was implemented after discussions following the recent Assembly session. He added that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had also previously spoken about adopting a two-language policy.
Until now, the SSLC examination carried a total of 625 marks, including 100 marks for the third language. With the new system in place, the total marks will be reduced to 525, as the third language will no longer contribute to the final score.
Under the revised format, students will still need to appear for the third language exam. However, instead of marks, they will receive grades such as A, B, C, or D. Importantly, these grades will not impact the student’s overall result, and there will be no pass or fail classification for this subject.
The minister explained that the move aims to reduce academic pressure on students. He pointed out that many Kannada-speaking students find it difficult to read and write certain third languages, particularly Hindi, which has been a subject of concern among Kannada groups and activists.
Bangarappa also clarified that Hindi is not the only third language taught in Karnataka. Schools across the state offer around 13 to 14 options, including Tamil, Telugu, Sanskrit, Marathi, Tulu, and others.
He noted that completely removing the third language at this stage could affect teachers who are currently employed to teach these subjects. Therefore, the government has opted for a gradual approach.
Highlighting last year’s data, the minister said that around 1.64 lakh students failed the third language exam, including approximately 1.48 lakh who failed in Hindi. He suggested that the pressure of clearing this subject may have also affected students’ performance in other subjects.
The minister declined to comment further on whether a full two-language policy would be implemented, stating that such decisions would be taken by the government, Cabinet, and Assembly in due course.
