What is Official Languages?
Historical Background
Key Points
9 points- 1.
Article 343(1): Hindi in Devanagari script is the official language of the Union.
- 2.
Article 343(2): English to continue as an additional official language for 15 years from the commencement of the Constitution.
- 3.
Official Languages Act, 1963: Allowed for the continued use of English alongside Hindi after 1965.
- 4.
Article 345: States can adopt any language used in the state as its official language.
Visual Insights
Constitutional Provisions for Official Languages
Compares key articles and provisions related to official languages in the Indian Constitution.
| Article | Description | Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| Article 343(1) | Hindi in Devanagari script as the official language of the Union. | Defines the primary official language. |
| Article 343(2) | Allowed for the use of English for official purposes for 15 years. | Provided a transition period for Hindi adoption. |
| Official Languages Act, 1963 | Continuation of English as an additional official language indefinitely. | Ensured continued use of English alongside Hindi. |
| Eighth Schedule | Lists the official languages of India (22 languages). | Recognizes and promotes linguistic diversity. |
Recent Real-World Examples
1 examplesIllustrated in 1 real-world examples from Feb 2026 to Feb 2026
Source Topic
Parliament's Interpreters: Translating India's Diversity in Real-Time
Polity & GovernanceUPSC Relevance
Frequently Asked Questions
121. What are Official Languages and their constitutional basis in India?
Official Languages are those designated by a country's constitution or laws for official government business. In India, Hindi and English are the official languages of the Union. The constitutional basis lies in Part XVII of the Constitution (Articles 343 to 351).
2. What are the key provisions related to Official Languages in the Indian Constitution?
Key provisions include: * Article 343(1): Hindi in Devanagari script is the official language of the Union. * Article 343(2): English was to continue as an additional official language for 15 years from the commencement of the Constitution. * Article 345: States can adopt any language used in the state as its official language.
- •Article 343(1): Hindi as official language
- •Article 343(2): English for 15 years
- •Article 345: States' power to choose
