The union cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday approved the designation of Classical Language status for Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali.
These languages join six others that have already been given the status of Classical Language: Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Odia.
Promotion, preservation, research
Experts say conferring Classical Language status to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali will promote these languages, their cultural preservation, academic research, and the overall recognition of linguistic heritage.
The step will enhance awareness of the language. Conferring classical status will strengthen the linguistic identity of speakers, fostering pride in their language’s contribution to national and global culture.
It will ensure that ancient literary texts, manuscripts, and works are conserved. Digitisation of ancient manuscripts will make them accessible to future generations of scholars.
The move will trigger the establishment of dedicated research institutions, translation efforts, and publication of texts.
Students pursuing higher studies in Classical Languages can benefit from scholarships.
Historical monuments, ancient libraries, and cultural centres linked to Classical Languages often may witness a boost in tourism as people would seek to explore the origins and evolution of these languages as well as the history and traditions associated with them.
Traditional arts, rituals, and festivals associated with the Classical Language will be safeguarded.
Employment generation and job opportunities
Universities and institutions will introduce specialised courses, leading to the demand for scholars, researchers, and language teachers in classical studies.
Scholars and researchers will find employment in language research, manuscript preservation, and linguistic studies.
Cultural heritage centres, museums, and libraries will require experts for the curation and preservation of manuscripts, historical records, and cultural artefacts related to the languages.
There may be a surge in demand for translators, editors, and publishers to work on translating ancient texts into modern languages, as well as creating new literary works in Classical Languages.
The promotion of Classical Languages often boosts cultural tourism, leading to the need for tour guides, event organisers, and hospitality professionals familiar with the languages and associated cultural heritage.
Digital platforms and traditional media will require content creators, writers, and producers to develop programmes, documentaries, and materials in and about the Classical Languages.
The digitisation of ancient manuscripts and texts will open opportunities for IT professionals in digital archiving, linguistic software development, and database management related to these Classical Languages.
Entrepreneurs can create start-ups or businesses focused on language learning platforms, educational tools, heritage tourism, and language-based publishing, which can generate employment.
With the recognition of Classical Languages, more festivals, literary events, and cultural programmes will be organised, requiring event management professionals, performers, and cultural practitioners.