PM Highlights Linguistic Diversity and the Role of Indian Languages

PM Highlights Linguistic Diversity and the Role of Indian Languages

The Prime Minister emphasized the significance of Indian languages in influencing and enriching one another, showcasing the country’s linguistic diversity.

Understanding Linguistic Diversity:

Linguistic diversity refers to both the total number of languages and the proportion of the population speaking any given language within a country.

Linguistic Diversity in India:

• Status: According to the 2011 Census, India has over 99 non-scheduled languages, 22 scheduled languages, and 121 other languages.
• Peoples Linguistic Survey of India (2010): Identified 780 languages, of which 50 have become extinct in the past 50 years.
• Language Families: Indian languages belong to various families, including Indo-Aryan, Dravidian, Austro-Asiatic, Tibeto-Burmese, among others.

Constitutional Provisions Promoting Linguistic Diversity:

• Eighth Schedule: Recognizes 22 scheduled languages.
• Article 29: Protects the language, script, and culture of any section of citizens.
• Article 350-B: Establishes a Special Officer for Linguistic Minorities to safeguard the interests of minority languages.

Initiatives to Enhance Linguistic Diversity in India:

• National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: Advocates for the medium of instruction in mother tongue or local language until at least Class 5.
• Sahitya Akademi: Supports the preservation and promotion of Indian languages through awards, publications, and research.
• Technology Initiatives: Platforms like Bhashini, AI-driven translation tools, and regional language support aim to facilitate digital inclusion.
• Classical Languages: Languages are designated as classical based on their historical importance and linguistic contributions.
• Committee: The Bharatiya Bhasha Samiti, a high-powered committee established in 2021, focuses on the promotion of Indian languages.

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