Video | Why Hindi Is An Official Language, Not National Language Of India

India, a nation of linguistic diversity, recognizes Hindi as one of its official languages but not as its national language. The distinction arises from the country's constitutional framework, which acknowledges the cultural and linguistic plurality of its people. Hindi, written in the Devanagari script, is the most widely spoken language in India, yet the constitution does not designate it—or any other language—as the national language, highlighting the importance of linguistic equality. The decision to make Hindi an official language was reached during the drafting of the Indian Constitution in 1949. The framers aimed to promote administrative efficiency while respecting the multilingual fabric of the nation. Alongside Hindi, English was retained for official purposes to ensure smooth communication across different regions. This bilingual approach was meant to bridge the gap between diverse linguistic communities and foster national unity without imposing a single language. India's linguistic policy reflects its commitment to diversity, with 21 other languages also recognized as scheduled languages under the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. This inclusive approach ensures that no single language dominates and that regional languages thrive. By designating Hindi as an official rather than a national language, India embraces a federal structure that values and preserves its rich linguistic heritage, promoting harmony and understanding among its citizens.

— Authored by Next24 Live