Uttarakhand’s Adarsh Sanskrit Village Programme

April 18, 2025

The Uttarakhand government has initiated the Adarsh Sanskrit Village Programme to promote the ancient language of Sanskrit. The decision was made on April 15, 2025, by the state cabinet. This initiative aims to teach Sanskrit in one selected village from each of the state’s thirteen districts. The programme aligns with efforts to enhance the status of Sanskrit, which is the second official language of Uttarakhand.

Objectives of the Programme

The primary goal is to preserve and promote Sanskrit. The initiative will connect the younger generation with Indian philosophy and cultural heritage. It aims to create model villages where Sanskrit is actively taught and used. The programme also seeks to break the perception that Sanskrit is exclusive to certain communities.

Selection of Villages

A committee led by district officials has chosen thirteen villages for the pilot phase. Villages include Bhogpur in Dehradun and Mukhem in Tehri. The selection was based on surveys assessing community receptiveness to learning Sanskrit. Depending on the success of this pilot, the programme may expand to the block level.

Recruitment of Instructors

The government plans to hire thirteen instructors, each earning Rs 20,000 per month. Candidates will undergo a written test and an interview process. Selected instructors will receive training at the Sanskrit Academy in Haridwar. They will learn the course outline and texts to be used in teaching.

Curriculum and Learning Materials

A structured syllabus has been developed. Learners will receive textbooks containing shlokas and stories from epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana. Important texts like the Vedas and Durga Saptashati will also be included. The curriculum aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of Sanskrit literature.

Community Involvement

The programme encourages participation from all community members, including Muslims, Dalits, and tribals. The government aims to encourage inclusivity by offering Sanskrit as an optional language in madrasas. A local committee will oversee the operational aspects of the programme.

Employment Opportunities

The initiative includes collaboration with industry associations to create job opportunities for individuals proficient in Sanskrit. This approach aims to enhance the practical utility of learning the language in contemporary settings.

Digital Integration and Promotion

The government plans to integrate Sanskrit into digital platforms. Collaborations with institutions like IIT Roorkee will focus on using Artificial Intelligence to promote Sanskrit. Additionally, signage in Sanskrit will be introduced in public transport and airports to increase visibility.

Cultural Significance

The programme marks the importance of Sanskrit in understanding ancient texts. It aims to encourage a deeper appreciation of India’s cultural and spiritual heritage. The initiative reflects a commitment to preserving linguistic diversity and cultural identity.

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