The Eighth Schedule to the Indian Constitution (Articles 344(1) and 351) recognizes 22 official languages.
- The schedule of constitution which speaks of the different languages under constitution.
- 14 languages were initially included in the Constitution, which was later expanded to 22 languages.
- Will provide legal, cultural, and educational benefits to the language speakers.
- Will facilitate the introduction of scheduled language as a medium of instruction in school curricula.
- Will enhance the language’s prestige and prevent it from being treated merely as a dialect.
- Is entitled to representation on the official languages commission.
What is the government doing?
- Through the Pahwa (1996) and Sitakant Mohapatra (2003) Committees to evolve a policy for the inclusion of more languages.
Source: The Indian Express