CBSE will offer legal studies in class XI and XII

Candidates who want to study law can also pursue this course in their class XI and XII as well. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has decided to start legal studies in class XI and XII from the coming academic session. This will be started as pilot project in 200 schools in the beginning in India and abroad.

These schools will impart legal studies as an elective subject that students can study along with three other elective subjects and a language. The subject is expected to become popular among students from both humanities and commerce field, who want to get admission into five-years integrated law programme.

Vineet Joshi, CBSE Chairman, said, "It will empower students of 21st century and open new career avenues for them in law. After a lot of brainstorming with scholars and experts, the board has decided to offer legal studies at class XI level from 2013-14. The course in the first year will be a pilot run on first-come, first-served basis. Based on the response, we will offer it to the rest of our affiliated schools."

The board has asked the schools to submit their letter of interest by 20th April, 2013 if they want to introduce this course in their schools. As per the CBSE officials, familiarity with law improves the understanding of public affairs and awareness of one's entitlements and duties as a citizen. This programme will enhance the understanding of law and encourage students to pursue law as career.

The subject will offer theory and nature of political institutions, nature and source of law, historical evolution of Indian legal system, civil and criminal courts and processes, family justice system, arbitration, tribunal adjudication and alternate dispute resolution, human rights in India, international context and legal profession in India.

Joshi said, "Through this course the board also wants to give a competitive edge to students who wish to prepare for a career in law. Prior to opting for law in higher studies, school students will get an idea about the subject and those with aptitude."

The schools are expected to introduce this subject in Class XI from June 2013 and these students move up to class XII in 2014-15, the subject will be introduced at that level as well.