Classifying Malaylam as ‘Classical Language’
The Union Cabinet today approved classifying Malayalam as a ‘Classical Language’ subject to the outcome of Writ Petition No. 18810 of 2008 (R. Gandhi Vs UOI & Ors) in the High Court of Judicature at Madras (Chennai).
The benefits which are extended to Classical Languages include the following :-
i) Two major annual international awards for scholars of eminence in classical Indian languages.
ii) A ‘Centre of Excellence for Studies in Classical Languages be set up.
iii) The University Grants Commission be requested to create, to start with at least in the Central Universities, a certain number of Professional Chairs for Classical Languages for scholars of eminence in classical Indian languages.
The Government has earlier notified both Telugu and Kannada as Classical Languages.
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SH/SK