Union home minister Amit Shah on Thursday called for a renewed national effort to reclaim India’s linguistic heritage, declaring that native languages are central to the country’s identity and should take precedence over foreign tongues.Speaking at the launch of Main Boond Swayam, Khud Sagar Hoon, a book authored by former IAS officer Ashutosh Agnihotri, Shah said India must shed remnants of colonial influence and embrace its own languages with pride.
“In this country, those who speak English will soon feel ashamed — the creation of such a society is not far away. Only those who are determined can bring about change. I believe that the languages of our country are the jewels of our culture. Without our languages, we cease to be truly Indian,” he said.
PollShah argued that foreign languages cannot capture the essence of Indian culture and history.
“To understand our country, our culture, our history, and our religion, no foreign language can suffice. The idea of a complete India cannot be imagined through half-baked foreign languages. I am fully aware of how difficult this battle is, but I am also fully confident that Indian society will win it.
