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On October 3, 2024, the Indian government granted “Classical” status to Marathi, Bengali, and three other languages in a historic move that celebrates the rich linguistic heritage of India. The decision, which came after years of debate and advocacy from cultural experts and state governments, highlights the deep literary and historical significance of these languages. With this announcement, the Indian government now recognizes a total of eight languages under the classical category, with Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu, and Kannada already holding this designation.
Marathi, spoken widely in Maharashtra, and Bengali, dominant in West Bengal and Bangladesh, both boast centuries of literary tradition. Marathi literature, dating back to the 13th century, includes devotional poetry and philosophical works that have influenced the region’s culture. Bengali, with its roots in ancient Sanskrit, is renowned globally for its vast body of literary and cultural contributions, including the works of Rabindranath Tagore, India’s first Nobel laureate.
This classical status grants these languages additional support from the central government for research and preservation, including establishing new academic chairs at major universities and funding for language studies. Furthermore, it promotes the use of these languages in higher education, ensuring that future generations can study and appreciate their rich heritage.
This recognition marks a significant cultural milestone, as it strengthens India’s linguistic diversity and brings attention to the importance of preserving indigenous languages. The decision also underscores the role of these languages in shaping the country’s cultural identity and literary achievements, placing them on par with globally recognized classical languages(
Hindustan Times)# 3. Government Approves Rs 2,029 Crore Bonus for Railway Employees Before Festive Season
In a significant boost to India’s railway workforce, the government approved a Rs 2,029 crore bonus package for railway employees ahead of the upcoming festive season. Announced on October 3, 2024, the bonus is part of the government’s effort to recognize the contributions of over 1.2 million employees who continue to ensure smooth operations across the country. This Productivity Linked Bonus (PLB) is intended to motivate employees and comes at a critical time before key Indian festivals such as Diwali and Durga Puja.
