By TC News Desk
Agartala, 5th October 2024: The Ministry of Culture has officially recognized Bengali as a classical language. This long-awaited recognition comes after years of advocacy by eminent personalities and language experts who have highlighted the rich and creative heritage of Bengali.
The announcement made last Thursday promises numerous benefits for the Bengali language. The Union Ministry of Human Resource Development will now offer two international awards for Bengali language experts. Additionally, a Center for Excellence will be established to promote the language, and Bengali will be taught in every central university.
At a press conference held at the Amra Bangali state office in Shibnagar, state secretary Gouranga Rudrapal expressed gratitude to the Centre for this recognition. He emphasized the significance of Bengali, noting that the national anthems of both India and Bangladesh are written in this language. Rudrapal also called for the day to be remembered in honor of those who dedicated their lives to the language movement.
Rudrapal stressed that this recognition is just the beginning. He demanded that Bengali be declared the official language in all areas and raised six key demands, including increased financial allocation for the development and spread of Bengali, the creation of language research centers, and rewards and employment for artists involved in Bengali music and literature. He also called for the protection of Bengali medium schools and the immediate filling of vacant Bengali language teacher positions from schools to universities.
Other leaders of the organization were present at the press conference, supporting these demands and announcing plans for a Durbar movement to further advocate for the Bengali language.
