Question

Q. Which of the following is not part of the classical language but is a scheduled 8 language?

• A. Malayalam
• B. Tamil
• C. Marathi
• D. Odia

Answer 1

The correct option is C Marathi

Explanation:

• Marathi is not a classical language, but is mentioned under Schedule 8 of Constitution.
• There are 22 scheduled languages given in the Indian Constitution. The experts from these scheduled languages get representation on the official language commission under Article 344. Also, the Government of India takes initiative to develop these languages and these can be used to appear in the examination of public service.
• Classical Languages are not specified under the constitution but have the following criteria-
  • High antiquity of its early texts/recorded history over a period of 1500- 2000 years;
  • A body of ancient literature/texts, which is considered a valuable heritage by generations of speakers;
  • The literary tradition be original and not borrowed from another speech community;
  • The classical language and literature being distinct from modern, there may also be a discontinuity between the classical language and its later forms or its offshoots.

There are six classical languages namely:

• Tamil (2004)
• Sanskrit (2005)
• Kannada (2008)
• Telugu (2008)
• Malayalam (2013)
• Odia (2014)