Hindi: A Unifying Companion to All Indian Languages, Says Amit Shah

At the golden jubilee celebration of the Department of Official Language, Union Home Minister Amit Shah delivered a compelling message on the role of Hindi in India's linguistic landscape. Contrary to popular misconceptions, he emphasized that Hindi should not be seen as an adversary to other Indian languages but rather as their companion — a unifying force that enriches the nation’s cultural fabric.

Shah also said that as far as the country is concerned, language is not just a medium of communication, it is the soul of a nation. (ANI photo) | Hindustan Times

Hindi as the Soul of the Nation

Amit Shah underlined that language is more than just a means of communication; it is the very soul of a country. He articulated that Hindi holds a special place not by overshadowing regional languages but by supporting and strengthening them. Shah called upon scholars, linguists, educators, and policymakers to work collaboratively in nurturing all Indian languages, ensuring their growth and enrichment in tandem with Hindi.

This vision marks a significant departure from divisive narratives that have historically pitted languages against each other. Instead, the emphasis is on harmony and mutual respect, where every language thrives in its own right, and Hindi acts as a bridge fostering unity.

Promoting Hindi through Education and Technology

One of the flagship initiatives Shah highlighted is the digital project “Hindi Shabd Sindhu,” an expansive repository designed to incorporate new Hindi vocabulary, especially in technical and scientific domains such as medicine and engineering. This digital lexicon serves as a living dictionary, evolving with contributions from language experts nationwide.

Additionally, Shah urged state governments to introduce professional courses like medical and engineering programs in local languages. This initiative is already underway in states like Madhya Pradesh, where medical education is being offered in Hindi, making higher education more accessible to a broader demographic.

Complementing these efforts, the availability of major competitive examinations in multiple Indian languages reflects the government's commitment to linguistic inclusivity. Exams like JEE, NEET, and CUET are now offered in thirteen languages, with an overwhelming majority of aspirants choosing to take these tests in their mother tongue. This inclusive approach ensures that language is no longer a barrier to education and employment opportunities.

Embracing Multilingualism and Cultural Identity

Amit Shah made it clear that there is no place for hostility toward any Indian or foreign language. Rather than viewing Hindi as a tool of imposition, he called for a national mindset that glorifies and values the mother tongue of every citizen. This inclusive approach aims to dismantle colonial legacies and foster a cultural renaissance where all languages coexist with dignity.

Historically, Hindi played a crucial role during India’s freedom struggle, chosen by leaders from non-Hindi regions such as Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru to unite the nation. Shah invoked this heritage, reminding the nation that Hindi’s essence lies in connection, not domination.

Policy Milestones and Decolonization Efforts

The launch of the Bharatiya Bhasha Anubhag (Indian Languages Section) marks a significant step toward decentralizing administrative language policy. This new division encourages the use of regional languages in governance, moving away from over-reliance on English and promoting the decolonization of official communication.

Furthermore, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s emphasis on mother tongue instruction up to grade 5 aligns with these initiatives. The government has also developed extensive e-learning resources in over 133 dialects, accessible through platforms like DIKSHA, promoting early childhood education in native languages.

Shah's leadership as the chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Official Language has set ambitious targets, including making Hindi the primary working language of the Union Government by India’s centenary of independence in 2047. Efforts are underway to develop multilingual software tools and dictionaries to ease administrative communication in Hindi and other regional languages.

Addressing Challenges and Regional Concerns

While the government’s linguistic policy has received praise for its inclusivity, it has also sparked concerns, particularly in India’s northeastern states. Critics fear that increased promotion of Hindi might marginalize regional languages and cultures, recalling past movements such as the Anti-Hindi agitations in Tamil Nadu during the mid-20th century.

Acknowledging these sensitivities, the government stresses its commitment to protecting and promoting all languages equally, ensuring that no language is forced upon any community. The goal remains to foster unity without erasing diversity.

Conclusion: A Vision for an Inclusive Linguistic Future

Amit Shah’s vision for Hindi as a unifying companion to India’s diverse languages encapsulates a broader goal of cultural integration and national pride. By embracing multilingualism, promoting mother tongue education, and leveraging technology, India seeks to build an inclusive society where every language flourishes.

As the country approaches its 100th year of independence in 2047, the hope is that Hindi, alongside myriad regional languages, will be celebrated as a vital thread in the rich tapestry of India’s heritage — a symbol of unity in diversity that empowers every citizen.

(Sources: Hindustan Times, News18, PTI)