Recognition of 5 New Classical Languages and Changes in Criteria

Introduction and About
  • The Union Cabinet has recently approved the expansion of the list of "classical languages" in the nation by recognising five more languages.
  • These include Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali, expanding the category beyond the previous six languages.
  • The concept of "Classical Language" was instituted by the Indian government in 2004 to preserve and acknowledge the historic legacy of certain languages.
  • The 11 classical languages of India represent significant cultural heritage and historical milestones for various communities across the nation.
Significance of Classical Languages
  • Classical languages, also known as Shastriya Bhasha, are those with a distinct historical legacy, profound literary traditions, and unique cultural heritage.
  • These languages have greatly influenced the intellectual and cultural growth of their respective regions.
  • The texts written in classical languages offer valuable insights into different areas such as literature, philosophy, and religion.
Assessment Criteria for Classical Languages
  • The criteria for identifying a language as classical was revised twice, in 2005 and 2024, by Linguistic Experts Committees under Sahitya Akademi.
  • The revised criteria include features such as Mysore to safeguard and promote these linguistic treasures.
Additional Measures to Promote Languages
  • The Eighth Schedule promotes the progressive use, enrichment and promotion of 22 recognised languages.
  • Article 344(1) and Article 351 of the constitution mandate the promotion of the Hindi language.
  • The Project ASMITA and New Education Policy focus on creating books in Indian languages and transforming  Sanskrit  universities  into multi-disciplinary institutions, respectively.
  • The Central Institute of Indian Languages promotes four classical languages, and the Central Sanskrit Universities Bill, 2019 granted central status to three deemed Sanskrit universities.
  • In 2024, the criteria was altered to emphasise the presence of original prose texts and evidence such as epigraphy and inscriptions in addition to poetry.
Benefits of Classical Language Status
  • The languages recognised as 'classical' by the government receive several benefits aimed at promoting their study and preservation.
  • Two international awards, the Presidential Award of Certificate of Honour and the Maharshi Badrayan Samman Award, are given annually to scholars who contribute significantly to these languages.
  • The University Grants Commission supports the creation of professional chairs at central universities and research institutions for classical Indian languages.
  • The Centre of Excellence for Studies in Classical Languages has been established at the Central Institute of Indian Languages in