Which one of the following was given classical language status recently?

[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2015 Prelims]

(a) Odia

(b) Konkani

(c) Bhojpuri

(d) Assamese

Answer: (a)

Explanation:

• Classical languages possess a recorded history dating back 1500 to 2000 years, indicating their high antiquity.
• These languages have a rich body of ancient literature and texts that are highly regarded as a valuable heritage by successive generations of speakers.
• The literary tradition of classical languages is original and not borrowed from another speech community.
• Classical languages and their literature are distinct from their modern counterparts, often exhibiting a discontinuity between the classical form and later variations or offshoots.
• The six recognized classical languages in India are Tamil (2004), Sanskrit (2005), Kannada (2008), Telugu (2008), Malayalam (2013), and Odia (2014).
• There are calls to declare Marathi as a classical language.
• India has a Center of Excellence dedicated to the study of classical languages.
• All the classical languages are listed in the 8th schedule of the Indian Constitution.
• The Ministry of Culture serves as the nodal ministry that provides guidelines and support for classical languages.

Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.