The State Government has accorded a status of second language to Sanskrit as it is a language which is rich in vocabulary, literature, thoughts and ideas, meanings and values. This was stated by the Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur while presiding over the first meeting of Himachal Pradesh Sanskrit Academy through video conferencing.
Chief Minister said that Sanskrit language, whatever be its antiquity, was more perfect than the Greek, more copious than the Latin, and more exquisitely refined than both of these. He said that Sanskrit was the oldest and the most continually used language in the world. He said that Sanskrit was still taught in some schools in India, and in a few places in the Western world. With India playing an ever more important part on the world stage, there has been a corresponding growth of interest in Sanskrit.
Jai Ram Thakur said that knowledge of Sanskrit is highly respected by the academic community. He said that Sanskrit literature offers an expansive view of human nature and its role in creation. In this era of unprecedented change and uncertainty, it can be a valuable tool to assess and look afresh at society, he added.
Chief Minister said that Sanskrit language was also known as ‘Devwani’ and the steps taken by the State Government in popularizing this language has been appreciated at various levels. He said that even Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded the decision of the State Government to give status of second language to Sanskrit. He said that efforts would be made to make Sanskrit more simple and practical so as to popularize it amongst the masses.
Jai Ram Thakur said that Sanskrit language was also considered as the best language for computer software. He said that the State Government was also contemplating to open a Sanskrit University in the State for which land was being identified. He said that Sanskrit scholars and Sanskrit Academy should come forward with suggestions to make this language as common man language so that students could be motivated to study the language.
Education Minister and Vice Chairman Sanskrit Academy Suresh Bhardwaj said that Himachal Pradesh was second State after Uttarakhand to give Sanskrit a status of second language. He said that the State Government would also ensure that the school children willing to opt for Sanskrit language have adequate opportunities at various levels.
Secretary Himachal Pradesh Sanskrit Academy Dr. Bhaktvatsal welcomed the Chief Minister and detailed various activities of the Academy.
