Actual Article
Article 351: Directive for development of the Hindi language
It shall be the duty of the Union to promote the spread of the Hindi language, to develop it so that it may serve as a medium of expression for all the elements of the composite culture of India and to secure its enrichment by assimilating without interfering with its genius, the forms, style and expressions used in Hindustani and in the other languages of India specified in the Eighth Schedule, and by drawing, wherever necessary or desirable, for its vocabulary, primarily on Sanskrit and secondarily on other languages.
UPSC Notes for Article 351
Explanation:
- Promotion of Hindi: Article 351 directs the Union to promote the spread and development of the Hindi language so that it can serve as a medium of expression for India’s diverse culture.
- Enrichment and Assimilation: Emphasizes the enrichment of Hindi by assimilating forms, styles, and expressions from Hindustani and other Indian languages specified in the Eighth Schedule, and by drawing on Sanskrit and other languages for its vocabulary.
Key Points:
- Cultural Medium: Aims to develop Hindi as a language that reflects the composite culture of India, incorporating diverse linguistic elements.
- Linguistic Harmony: Promotes linguistic harmony by encouraging the assimilation of various linguistic influences into Hindi without compromising its unique character.
- Vocabulary Development: Suggests drawing from Sanskrit and other languages to enrich Hindi’s vocabulary, ensuring its adaptability and relevance.
Important Cases and Commissions Related to Article 351
Cases:
- No landmark Supreme Court cases specifically interpreting Article 351, but it has been influential in shaping language policies and educational initiatives for promoting Hindi.
Commissions:
- Official Language Commission (1955): Made recommendations for the promotion and development of Hindi.
- Central Hindi Directorate: Established to implement policies and programs for the development and promotion of Hindi as directed by Article 351.
Important Reports Related to Article 351:
- Official Language Commission Reports: Provide insights into the progress of Hindi promotion and recommend measures for further development.
- Reports by the Central Hindi Directorate: Highlight the initiatives taken to promote Hindi and suggest strategies for its enrichment and spread.
Previous Year Prelims Questions Related to Article 351
- (UPSC Prelims 2016) What is the primary duty of the Union under Article 351 of the Indian Constitution?
A. To promote the spread of the English language
B. To promote the spread and development of the Hindi language
C. To promote the spread of all regional languages equally
D. To promote the spread of Sanskrit as the national language Correct Answer: B. To promote the spread and development of the Hindi language - (UPSC Prelims 2018) According to Article 351, what should Hindi assimilate to enrich its vocabulary?
A. Only words from English
B. Expressions from Hindustani and other Indian languages, primarily Sanskrit
C. Terms from scientific literature
D. None of the above Correct Answer: B. Expressions from Hindustani and other Indian languages, primarily Sanskrit
Previous Year Mains Questions Related to Article 351
- Mains 2016: “Discuss the significance of Article 351 in the context of promoting linguistic unity in India. How does the directive to develop Hindi as a medium of expression for India’s composite culture contribute to national integration?”
- Mains 2019: “Evaluate the impact of Article 351 on the promotion and development of the Hindi language. What challenges and opportunities does this directive present in the context of India’s linguistic diversity?”
Additional Insights:
- Cultural Integration: Article 351 aims to develop Hindi as a language that integrates and reflects the cultural diversity of India, promoting unity and mutual understanding.
- Linguistic Enrichment: Encourages the enrichment of Hindi by incorporating elements from other Indian languages and Sanskrit, ensuring its growth and adaptability.
- Educational and Policy Implications: Influences educational policies and language promotion programs, ensuring that Hindi’s development aligns with the directive outlined in the Constitution.
Understanding Article 351 is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it provides insights into the constitutional provisions for promoting and developing the Hindi language, highlighting its role in fostering linguistic unity and cultural integration. This knowledge is essential for both preliminary and main examinations, offering a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms ensuring the promotion of Hindi within the Indian Constitution.