In a landmark decision, the Karnataka Cabinet has approved Tulu as the State’s second Additional administrative language, fulfilling a long-standing demand of the people of Coastal Karnataka and marking a major milestone in the movement to preserve and promote the language.
The historic decision was taken during the first-ever State Cabinet meeting held in Mangaluru on Friday, chaired by Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, at the Deputy Commissioner’s Office. Announcing the decision after the meeting, the Chief Minister said the government had resolved to grant Tulu official language status in recognition of its rich cultural and linguistic heritage.
Tulu, one of the five Dravidian languages, has a rich history and a vibrant oral and literary tradition. Predominantly spoken in the Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, the language’s recognition as Karnataka’s second official language is expected to strengthen the demand for its inclusion in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, which lists India’s officially recognized languages.
The state government’s decision is likely to provide greater momentum to efforts aimed at persuading the Union Government to include Tulu in the constitutional list of scheduled languages.
Decision Based on Expert Committee Report:
The Cabinet’s decision was based on the recommendations of an expert committee headed by renowned educationist Dr. M. Mohan Alva. The committee was constituted to examine the legal, administrative, and practical aspects of granting official status to Tulu. It also studied the language policies adopted by neighbouring states before submitting a comprehensive report to the government.
Long-Standing Demand Finally Fulfilled:
The recognition of Tulu as Karnataka’s second official language marks the culmination of decades of sustained efforts by the Tulu Sahitya Academy, writers, cultural organisations, Tulu associations, and public representatives. The announcement has been widely welcomed across Coastal Karnataka, where people are celebrating what is being hailed as a historic victory for the Tulu language and its speakers.
