Q. Which community in Kookanam, Kerala, speaks the 'Madhika language' that was mentioned in the news?
Answer:
Chakaliya
Notes: Madhika, a language spoken by the Chakaliya community in Kookanam, Kerala, is on the verge of extinction. The Chakaliya were once nomadic and migrated from Karnataka to northern Malabar. Initially recognized as a Scheduled Tribe, they are now part of the Scheduled Caste category in Kerala. The language, resembling Kannada, faces a decline as the younger generation opts for Malayalam. With only two remaining speakers, efforts are underway, including the government's 'Scheme for Protection and Preservation of Endangered Languages of India,' to safeguard Madhika from disappearing.