On October 3, 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the inclusion of Marathi, Bengali, Assamese, Pali, and Prakrit as classical languages, joining the ranks of Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Sanskrit, and Odia. This recognition fulfills long-pending demands, especially for Marathi, which had been awaiting approval since 2013.
The timing of the recognition for Bengali is particularly notable, as it coincides with West Bengal’s biggest festival, Durga Puja, further amplifying its cultural significance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated speakers of the newly recognized languages, highlighting their historical and cultural importance. He remarked that Pali and Prakrit, languages rooted in India’s spiritual and philosophical traditions, hold a timeless influence on the nation’s history.
The designation of these languages as classical opens up new avenues in academic and research fields, promoting their study and encouraging employment opportunities. The Ministry of Education will offer international awards, set up Centers of Excellence for these languages, and request the University Grants Commission to establish professional chairs for them at Central Universities.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed pride and gratitude for Marathi’s new status, calling it a “historic day” for the state.
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