Extremely glad for classical status to several languages, says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said he was "extremely glad" the Union Cabinet has conferred classical language status on Assamese, Bengali, Marathi, Pali and Prakrit, and asserted his government cherishes India's rich history and culture.

The government said classical languages serve as a custodian of Bharat's profound and ancient cultural heritage, embodying the essence of each community's historical and cultural milestone.

In a post on X, the prime minister said, "Our Government cherishes and celebrates India's rich history and culture. We have also been unwavering in our commitment to popularising regional languages."

"I am extremely glad the Cabinet has decided that Assamese, Bengali, Marathi, Pali and Prakrit will be conferred the status of Classical Languages," he added.

Modi said each of them are beautiful languages, highlighting India's vibrant diversity.

Marathi is India's pride, he said as he congratulated people on this "phenomenal language" being accorded the