DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced the formation of a high-level commission on Monday. This new body will focus on the revival and comprehensive development of Sanskrit across Uttarakhand. Chief Minister Dhami delivered this announcement during the opening of the two-day International Sanskrit Conference. The significant event took place in Haridwar.
Sanskrit’s Enduring Global Legacy
CM Dhami highlighted the profound historical and linguistic impact of Sanskrit . He emphasized its foundational role, stating that roots of numerous languages globally are intrinsically linked to Sanskrit. This ancient language served as the medium for India’s most revered texts. The Vedas, Puranas, and Upanishads, cornerstones of Indian thought, were all composed in Sanskrit. This rich literary tradition significantly enriched India’s ideological heritage.
The Chief Minister also referenced historical periods of academic interest. He specifically noted a growing fascination among European scholars during the 18th and 19th centuries. These scholars deeply engaged with Sanskrit literature and philosophical works. Beyond modern interest, ancient Indian universities were paramount in knowledge dissemination. Institutions such as Takshashila, Nalanda, Vikramshila, and Vallabhi consistently spread Sanskrit-based knowledge to the wider world. These centers were pivotal in establishing India’s scholarly reputation.
Uttarakhand’s Proactive Promotion Efforts
Uttarakhand has formally recognized Sanskrit as its second official language. This designation underlines the state’s deep commitment to the language. The state government continuously implements initiatives to promote Sanskrit education. These efforts actively integrate Sanskrit teaching into the curriculum of state schools. CM Dhami reiterated the state’s sense of duty. He declared it essential to enrich Sanskrit within Uttarakhand, which he honored as the “holy land” that gave birth to the Vedas and profound knowledge from ancient sages. This spiritual connection drives the state’s preservation efforts.
The government is currently advancing several concrete plans. A primary resolution involves establishing an “Adarsh Sanskrit Gram” in every district throughout Uttarakhand. These model villages will serve as centers for Sanskrit learning and cultural practice. Furthermore, the state aims to bolster government assistance for academic research in Sanskrit. This financial support seeks to encourage deeper scholarly engagement. Efforts are also being made to generate increased employment opportunities directly for students specializing in Sanskrit studies. This aims to create viable career paths.
Personal Advocacy and Modern Educational Integration
Chief Minister Dhami shared a personal connection to the language, underscoring his advocacy. He recounted his own educational journey, having studied Sanskrit until Class 9. He fondly remembered the language’s intricate verses, its precise grammar, and its inherent sweetness. These linguistic attributes, he noted, remain vivid in his memory.
Beyond personal appreciation, the New Education Policy (NEP) plays a crucial role. Dhami highlighted the NEP’s specific emphasis on re-establishing Sanskrit in contemporary education. The policy’s goal is to position Sanskrit as a modern and highly practical language. This integration into the new educational framework aims to make Sanskrit relevant and accessible for current generations. It seeks to move Sanskrit beyond historical study into practical application.
The Chief Minister also recalled the contributions of India’s great scholars. Figures like Charaka, Sushruta, Aryabhatta, Bhaskaracharya, Chanakya, Brahmagupta, and Panini were born in India. Their works, often in Sanskrit, represent a rich intellectual heritage. This legacy further reinforces the importance of Sanskrit for India and the world.