The Union Cabinet has recently (October 2024) approved conferring the status of Classical Language to five languages. Which of the following was the first language to receive the status of "Classical Language" in India?

Correct option is B

Option (b) is correct. The Union Cabinet has recently approved the conferment of Classical Language status to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali languages.
Details:
· First Language: Tamil was the first language to be recognized as a Classical Language in India in 2004.
· Other Classical Languages:
· Sanskrit (2005)
· Kannada (2008)
· Telugu (2008)
· Malayalam (2013)
· Odia (2014)
· New Additions: Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali have recently been included.
· Criteria for Recognition: Established by the Linguistic Experts' Committee and the Ministry of Culture, the criteria emphasize a rich literary tradition, unique legacy, and historical depth.
· Listing: All Classical Languages are included under the 8th Schedule of the Constitution.