TFP Bureau, New Delhi, December 18, 2024: The Government of India reaffirmed its dedication to preserving and promoting the nation’s rich linguistic heritage, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy announced at a press conference today. Emphasizing the role of languages in cultural development and national unity, he outlined various initiatives under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, aimed at empowering regional and classical languages across the country.
“India’s diversity in languages is unparalleled. They are not just tools of communication but repositories of our culture and traditions,” said Reddy. Recognizing historical challenges, such as the suppression of regional languages during colonial rule, he lauded efforts to elevate their status. Key milestones include the expansion of the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, which now recognizes 22 languages, and the granting of classical status to 11 ancient languages, including the recent addition of Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali.
The Minister highlighted the transformative impact of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which prioritizes teaching in local languages. The policy encourages the use of regional languages in higher education, STEM subjects, and competitive exams. “Studies show that learning in one’s mother tongue enhances cognitive development and confidence,” Reddy said.
In a bid to make education more inclusive, 104 primary books have been introduced in 22 regional languages, and platforms like DIKSHA offer over 3,66,000 e-content pieces in 133 languages. The government has also introduced Indian Sign Language (ISL) materials for school education and made engineering courses available in eight Indian languages.
Technological initiatives, such as the National Language Translation Mission and the Bhashini Project, are bridging linguistic gaps using digital tools. Furthermore, cultural programs like the Saurashtra Tamil Sangamam and Kashi Tamil Sangamam celebrate the unity and diversity of Indian languages.
Prime Minister Modi’s international advocacy for Hindi and efforts to promote Indian languages globally were also highlighted. Reddy underscored that the government’s vision is to make Indian languages globally competitive while fostering pride in the nation’s linguistic legacy.
“Languages are bridges connecting generations and communities. By preserving and promoting them, we are paving the way for a unified and culturally enriched India,” Reddy concluded.
