Which of the following languages is mainly spoken in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep?

Appeared in: DSSSB 12 August 2024

Explanation

Malayalam is the official and most widely spoken language in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep.
This is primarily due to the archipelago's close geographical proximity to the Malabar Coast of Kerala, which has led to strong historical, cultural, and trade links.
The administration and education systems in Lakshadweep also predominantly use Malayalam.

Option A: Kannada is the official language of Karnataka, a state located to the northeast of Kerala, and has no significant linguistic presence in Lakshadweep.
Option B: Telugu is the primary language of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, states on the eastern side of the Indian peninsula, which are geographically distant from Lakshadweep.
Option D: Tamil is the official language of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. While there are historical maritime links across southern India, it is not the main language of Lakshadweep.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Linguistic demographics of Indian States and Union Territories as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question tests general knowledge, which is a component of many nursing entrance and recruitment examinations in India.
While not directly clinical, general awareness of India's geography and cultural diversity is part of a well-rounded education for healthcare professionals.
What if? If the question had specified the island of Minicoy, the correct answer would be Mahl (a dialect of Divehi), not Malayalam. This highlights the importance of paying attention to specific details in a question.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key elements of the question: 'main language' and 'Lakshadweep'.
Next, recall or deduce the geographical location of Lakshadweep. It is a group of islands in the Arabian Sea.
Relate its location to the nearest mainland state. Lakshadweep is situated just off the coast of Kerala.
Based on this proximity, infer that the language and culture would be heavily influenced by the nearest large state, which is Kerala.
Review the options provided and identify the language corresponding to Kerala. Malayalam is the language of Kerala.
Conclude that Malayalam is the most logical and correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full DSSSB 12 August 2024

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