Initially, how many languages were recognized in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution?

Appeared in: DSSSB October 2024

Explanation

The Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution originally included 14 languages when it was adopted in 1950.
These languages were recognized as the official languages of various states, reflecting the linguistic diversity of the nation at its formation.
The number has since been expanded to the current total of 22 through subsequent constitutional amendments.

Option A: This is an incorrect figure with no specific constitutional relevance to the number of languages in the Eighth Schedule.
Option B: This is incorrect. While India recognizes several 'Classical Languages', this is a separate designation from the Eighth Schedule, and the number is not eight.
Option D: This is incorrect in this context. This number represents the total number of Schedules in the Indian Constitution, which is a common point of confusion.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Initial languages in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
General knowledge, including Indian civics, is a component of the syllabus for many nursing recruitment examinations, testing a candidate's overall awareness.
Understanding the linguistic diversity officially recognized by the constitution helps healthcare professionals appreciate the cultural context of patients from various parts of India, which can aid in better communication and care.
What if the question asked for the current number of languages in the Eighth Schedule? The answer would be 22, which includes languages added by the 21st, 71st, and 92nd amendments.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key terms in the question: 'Initially', 'Eighth Schedule', and 'languages'.
The word 'initially' is the most critical part of the question. It directs you to recall the number of languages at the time the Constitution was adopted, not the current number.
Access your knowledge of Indian civics, specifically the structure of the Constitution.
Recall the fact that the Eighth Schedule began with 14 languages.
Evaluate the distractor options to understand why they might be confusing. For instance, 12 is the total number of Schedules, and 22 is the current number of languages. Recognizing these common distractors reinforces the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Initial languages in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution
Stem keywords: Eighth Schedule, Indian Constitution, initially, languages recognized
Lead-in keywords: how many
Negative lead-in flag: false

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E6 Handbook of Forensic Nursing Suresh Sharma p. 49-51

Practise the full DSSSB October 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.