Vice-President Inaugurates International Conference on Indian Languages

The Vice-President of India, C. P. Radhakrishnan, inaugurated the Third International Conference on Indian Languages in New Delhi, underscoring the civilisational, democratic, and contemporary relevance of India’s linguistic heritage. The conference brought together scholars, linguists, and international delegates to deliberate on preservation, research, and global cooperation in Indian languages.

Language as the Conscience of Civilisation

Addressing the gathering, the Vice-President described language as the conscience of civilisation, carrying collective memory, knowledge systems, and values across generations. From ancient stone inscriptions and palm-leaf manuscripts to modern digital scripts, he noted that languages have preserved philosophies, sciences, poetry, and ethical traditions that define humanity. Recalling his participation in Siddha Day celebrations in Chennai, he highlighted the enduring testimony of palm-leaf manuscripts to India’s vast multilingual knowledge traditions.

Unity Through Linguistic Diversity

Emphasising India’s plural ethos, the Vice-President said the country’s many languages have never divided the nation; instead, they have strengthened a shared civilisational consciousness and a common Dharma. He observed that Indian languages have contributed profoundly to philosophy, medicine, science, governance, and spirituality. Reflecting on his role as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, he noted the growing practice of Members of Parliament speaking in their mother tongues as a sign of democratic maturity.

Constitutional Recognition and Inclusion

The Vice-President recalled that a translated copy of the Constitution of India was recently released in the Santhali language by President Droupadi Murmu, calling it a milestone for linguistic inclusion. He underlined that the Constitution of India and its Eighth Schedule celebrate linguistic diversity, affirming that national unity rests on mutual respect rather than uniformity. Democracy, he said, flourishes when citizens can express themselves in their own language.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• The Eighth Schedule of the Constitution recognises India’s linguistic diversity.
• Santhali is one of the languages included in the Eighth Schedule.
• National Education Policy 2020 promotes multilingual education.
• Palm-leaf manuscripts are key sources of ancient Indian knowledge systems.

Preserving Languages Through Technology and Policy

Highlighting global concerns over endangered indigenous languages, the Vice-President stressed the role of international conferences in research collaboration and manuscript preservation. Referring to initiatives under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he cited the National Education Policy 2020 and the Gyan Bharatam Mission as key steps in safeguarding linguistic heritage. He advocated the use of digital archives, AI-based translation tools, and multilingual platforms to ensure Indian languages thrive in the present and shape the future.