Actual Article
Article 346: Official language for communication between one State and another or between a State and the Union
The language for the time being authorized for use in the Union for official purposes shall be the official language for communication between one State and another State and between a State and the Union:
Provided that if two or more States agree that the Hindi language should be the official language for communication between such States, that language may be used for such communication.
UPSC Notes for Article 346
Explanation:
- Official Language for Inter-State and State-Union Communication: Article 346 specifies that the official language authorized for use in the Union (currently Hindi and English) shall be used for communication between States and between a State and the Union.
- Option for Hindi: Allows States to mutually agree to use Hindi for communication between themselves if they choose to do so.
Key Points:
- Standardized Communication: Ensures standardized and effective communication between different states and between states and the Union government.
- Flexibility for Hindi Use: Provides flexibility for States to adopt Hindi for inter-state communication if mutually agreed upon, promoting the use of Hindi while respecting linguistic diversity.
Important Cases and Commissions Related to Article 346
Cases:
- No specific landmark Supreme Court cases interpreting Article 346 directly, but it is often referenced in discussions about official language policies and inter-state communication.
Commissions:
- Official Language Commission (1955): Reviewed the use of languages in official communication and made recommendations for the gradual transition to Hindi.
- Parliamentary Committee on Official Language: Periodically reviews the implementation of language policies and suggests measures to promote Hindi and other languages.
Important Reports Related to Article 346:
- Official Language Commission Reports: Discuss the use of languages in official communication and recommend measures to facilitate the use of Hindi and other languages.
- Reports by Parliamentary Committee on Official Language: Provide insights into the progress of implementing language policies and suggest improvements for inter-state and state-Union communication.
Previous Year Prelims Questions Related to Article 346
- (UPSC Prelims 2016) According to Article 346 of the Indian Constitution, what is the official language for communication between one State and another State and between a State and the Union?
A. English
B. Hindi
C. The language authorized for use in the Union for official purposes
D. Any language mutually agreed upon by the States Correct Answer: C. The language authorized for use in the Union for official purposes - (UPSC Prelims 2018) Under Article 346, which language can States agree to use for communication between themselves?
A. English
B. Their respective regional languages
C. Hindi
D. Sanskrit Correct Answer: C. Hindi
Previous Year Mains Questions Related to Article 346
- Mains 2016: “Discuss the significance of Article 346 in ensuring standardized communication between States and between a State and the Union. How does this article facilitate linguistic cohesion while allowing flexibility?”
- Mains 2019: “Evaluate the challenges and opportunities presented by Article 346 in the context of India’s linguistic diversity. How does the provision for using Hindi for inter-state communication impact regional languages?”
Additional Insights:
- Facilitating Communication: Article 346 plays a crucial role in facilitating smooth and standardized communication between different states and between states and the Union government.
- Promoting Hindi: Encourages the use of Hindi for inter-state communication, promoting its status as the official language, while also providing the flexibility to use other languages if mutually agreed.
- Balancing Diversity: Balances the need for a common language for official communication with the linguistic diversity of India, ensuring inclusivity and mutual respect among states.
Understanding Article 346 is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it provides insights into the constitutional provisions for official language use in inter-state and state-Union communication, highlighting the balance between promoting Hindi and respecting linguistic diversity. This knowledge is essential for both preliminary and main examinations, offering a comprehensive understanding of the linguistic policies within the Indian Constitution.