Why in news
Five languages were granted classical status: Marathi, Bengali, Assamese, Pali, and Prakrit.
Criteria for Classical Status: The criteria were revised to include languages with a history of over 1000 years, ancient literature, and original literary tradition.
The concept of classical language status was introduced by the UPA government in 2004.
Tamil was the first language declared classical.
The criteria were adjusted to include languages with a history of 1500-2000 years and potential discontinuity between classical and modern forms.
Process of Attaining Classical Status
The Pathare committee was formed to prepare a proposal for Marathi's classical status.
The proposal was submitted to the Linguistic Experts Committee.
Both the Congress and BJP-led governments supported the proposal.
Extensive public support and political pressure were involved.
Marathi's history dating back over 2000 years and its original language status were key arguments.
Revised Criteria and New Additions
The LEC removed the requirement for an original literary tradition.
Knowledge texts, prose, epigraphical, and inscriptional evidence were added as requirements.
A classical language could be distinct from its current form.
Impact of New Criteria
Inclusion of Modern Languages: Bengali and Assamese, modern languages in current use, were also declared classical.
Extensive research and documentation were provided to support the claims for these languages.
Future Implications for Newly Declared Classical Languages
The recognition aims to preserve and promote these languages.
Increased research, translation, and support for dialects are expected.
Government funding and support for universities, centers of excellence, and awards will be provided.
The recognition is hoped to encourage the learning and use of these languages.
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