The Lingua Franca And The Federal Fabric: A Comprehensive Analysis Of India's Language Policy, Identity, And Aspiration
- IJLLR Journal
- Sep 26
- 2 min read
Vaibhav Singh Yadav, Law Graduate from Campus Law Centre, DU
ABSTRACT
India’s linguistic landscape is one of extraordinary diversity, where every region, every community, and even every street can have its own distinct voice. Language in India is not merely a tool for communication; it is a marker of identity, a gateway to opportunity, and a cornerstone of the nation’s federal cohesion. This article explores the historical, constitutional, and socio-economic dimensions of India’s language policy, tracing its evolution from the deliberations of the Constituent Assembly to the dual- language framework institutionalized under the Official Languages Act, 1963.
The study examines the ongoing tension between Hindi, promoted as a symbol of national unity and cultural identity, and English, which has become a language of aspiration, global mobility, and socio-economic advantage. It highlights how English proficiency, while opening doors to opportunity, has also reinforced socio-economic stratification, creating a “new caste” shaped by linguistic skill. Simultaneously, the promotion of Hindi faces resistance in non-Hindi-speaking regions, reflecting the challenges of balancing national integration with regional identity.
The article further analyses contemporary education policies, particularly the National Education Policy 2020 and its three-language formula, alongside the uneven promotion and funding of classical languages. By drawing lessons from India’s linguistic reorganization and comparing its approach with international examples such as Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, the study underscores the consequences of exclusionary language policies and the benefits of inclusive, flexible approaches.
Ultimately, this research advocates for a “new linguistic federalism” that preserves cultural diversity, promotes equitable economic and educational opportunities, and leverages multilingualism as a source of national unity. In this vision, every Indian language is not only a living cultural heritage but also a pathway to dignity, opportunity, and collective identity.
Keywords: India, language policy, linguistic diversity, Hindi, English, multilingualism, federalism, socio-economic stratification, National Education Policy 2020, classical languages, language and identity, linguistic federalism.
