Hindi Not In Competition With Local Languages, Says Union Home Minister Amit Shah

In a statement on August 4, 2023, Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized the importance of accepting Hindi, even if the process is gradual and met with opposition.

On Friday, Shah presided over the 38th meeting of the Committee of Parliament on Official Language.

During the meeting, Shah emphasized that Hindi should not be seen as a competitor to local languages, but rather as a means to empower the nation by promoting all Indian languages.

During the meeting, the Committee of Parliament on Official Language approved the 12th volume of their report.

This report will be presented to the President.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been promoting the concept of "Panch Pran" which includes respecting heritage and eliminating traces of colonialism.

Shah emphasized that in order to implement these principles, both Indian languages and the official language need to demonstrate their strength.

He also highlighted the importance of respecting language as a part of preserving heritage. He emphasized that acceptance of the official language can only be achieved when local languages are given the respect they deserve.

He stressed that PM Modi had never delivered a speech in English during his time in Parliament, and his ministers also strive to deliver speeches in Indian languages.

This movement to connect different languages has gained significant momentum, he added.

Acceptance of the official language, he emphasized, does not stem from mere laws or circulars, but rather from goodwill, inspiration, and encouragement.

He highlighted the remarkable achievement of Indian languages and their dictionaries remaining intact even after the end of British rule, stating that they have played a significant role in uniting our country.

The Committee of Parliament on Official Language has submitted nine volumes of reports from Independence until 2014, with three volumes being approved since 2019. These volumes have been meticulously prepared, focusing on specific subjects.

The theme of the 12th volume is 'Simplification'.