A recent report based on data accessed via a Right to Information (RTI) application and public records has revealed a stark disparity in government funding for classical languages in India. Between 2014-15 and 2024-25, the central government spent ₹2,532.59 crore on the promotion and preservation of sanskrit alone. This figure is an astonishing 17 times more than the ₹147.56 crore collectively allocated to the other five officially recognized classical indian languages—Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, malayalam, and Odia—during the same period. The revelation has sparked a debate among linguistic scholars, political analysts, and cultural advocates about linguistic equity and cultural prioritization.

Sanskrit, often referred to as the root of many indian languages and revered for its historical and religious significance, has undeniably played a vital role in India’s linguistic heritage. However, critics argue that the disproportionate allocation of funds reveals a bias that undermines the richness and living traditions of other classical languages, many of which have vibrant literary legacies and are still spoken by millions today. For example, tamil boasts the world’s longest-surviving classical literary tradition, while Telugu, Kannada, and malayalam continue to evolve with rich modern literature and robust film industries. Advocates for these languages are questioning why their preservation and development receive relatively negligible support.

This funding imbalance is increasingly being viewed through political and ideological lenses. Some experts argue that the central government’s focus on sanskrit data-aligns with a larger cultural agenda that seeks to revive and promote ancient Hindu traditions, with sanskrit symbolizing a certain vision of indian identity. On the other hand, regional parties and cultural organizations from southern india have criticized the move as a form of cultural centralization that overlooks the linguistic diversity of the country. As india continues to celebrate its pluralistic heritage, the demand for more equitable language promotion policies is growing louder, calling for a more balanced and inclusive approach to preserving the nation’s classical languages.