All Exams Test series for 1 year @ ₹349 only
Question

Recently, the Union Cabinet granted Classical Language Status to five languages. Consider the following statements regarding the revised criteria for a language to be conferred with Classical status:
I. High antiquity of its early texts or recorded history, spanning at least 1500-2000 years.
II. A body of ancient literature/texts considered a valuable heritage by successive generations of speakers.
III. The literary tradition should be original and not borrowed from another speech community.
IV. The language must be currently spoken by more than 50 million people.
Which of the statements given above are correct?

The correct answer is
I, II and III only

Classical Language Status: Understanding the Criteria

The question asks about the revised criteria for a language to be conferred with Classical Language Status. This status is granted to languages that possess certain historical and literary characteristics, distinguishing them based on their rich past and cultural significance. Let's analyze each statement provided:

Statement I: High Antiquity

  • Content: This statement mentions a high antiquity for early texts or recorded history, spanning at least 1500-2000 years.
  • Analysis: This is a primary criterion for a language to be considered classical. The antiquity of its earliest records is crucial. For instance, Sanskrit has texts dating back over two millennia.
  • Verdict: Correct.

Statement II: Valuable Ancient Literature

  • Content: This statement refers to a body of ancient literature and texts that are considered a valuable heritage by successive generations of speakers.
  • Analysis: Classical languages are characterized by a significant literary tradition that has been preserved and valued over time. This heritage forms a core part of the language's identity and contribution to culture.
  • Verdict: Correct.

Statement III: Original Literary Tradition

  • Content: This statement emphasizes that the literary tradition must be original and not borrowed from another speech community.
  • Analysis: This criterion ensures that the language has an independent and distinct literary history. It highlights the uniqueness and self-originating nature of its literary contributions.
  • Verdict: Correct.

Statement IV: Current Speaker Population

  • Content: This statement posits that the language must be currently spoken by more than 50 million people.
  • Analysis: This is incorrect. Classical Language Status is primarily based on historical and literary merit, not on the current number of speakers. Many classical languages may have a limited number of current native speakers but possess immense historical and cultural value. For example, Sanskrit, while having a classical status, does not have 50 million current speakers. This criterion is often confused with other language classifications or initiatives based on population size.
  • Verdict: Incorrect.

Conclusion on Correct Statements

Based on the analysis, statements I, II, and III accurately represent the core criteria for conferring Classical Language Status. Statement IV, concerning the minimum number of current speakers, is not a standard criterion for this specific designation.

Therefore, the correct statements are I, II, and III only.

Was this answer helpful?

Important Questions from National

  1. The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) recently opened its overseas campus at ___________
  2. Which of the following statements about "Development of Semiconductors and Manufacturing Ecosystems in India" are correct?
    i. Three semiconductors units will be established under this programme.
    ii. All the three units will be located in the state of Assam.
    iii. These units will generate direct employment for one lakh people.
    iv. Two units will be established in Gujarat and one unit in Assam.
    Choose the correct answer given below:
  3. Match the following state/UT-wise list of GI tagged handloom products of India:
    GI Tagged Handloom ProductsState/UT
    1. Tangaliya Shawli. Nagaland
    2. Chakheshang Shawlii. Gujarat
    3. Habaspuri Saree and Productsiii. Odisha
    4. Kani Shawliv. Jammu and Kashmir

    Choose the correct answer:
  4. Which of the following statements about movie "Santosh" are correct?
    i. The Movie was premiered at the 77th Cannes Film Festival 2024.
    ii. The Movie is Britain's Oscar entry in the international feature category.
    iii. The Movie is India's Oscar entry in the international feature category.
    iv. The Movie is directed by an Indian Director Sandhya Suri.
    Choose the correct answer given below:
  5. Which of the following statements about the goals of Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Policy (2020) are correct?
    i. To become the most preferred all-season tourist destination for both domestic and foreign tourists by 2025.
    ii. To promote all kinds of tourism across Jammu and Kashmir.
    iii. To promote city-wise events and festivals with a pre-defined calendar and promoting the same at national and international level.
    iv. To generate employment of approximately 75,000 people per year.
    Choose the correct answer given below:
Need Expert Advice?

Start Your Preparation with Prepp Mobile App

Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Prepp Mobile App