: Mumbai, September 15, 2025

The foundation stone of the ambitious project ‘Centre of Excellence in Heritage Languages and Cultural Studies’ being set up at the Kalina Campus of the University of Mumbai was laid by Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju.

Speaking on the occasion, Union Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju said that the establishment of this Centre in a higher education institution of national importance like the University of Mumbai is a matter of pride for the country. Through this Centre, ancient and rich heritage languages like Pali, Prakrit and Avesta Pahlavi will be studied, researched, preserved and promoted. He emphasised that this initiative will not be limited to academics alone but will lay a strong foundation for India’s bright future. Shri Rijiju noted that the Centre will open new dimensions in research on languages blessed with historical heritage, and further strengthen India’s cultural and educational fabric.

In his address, Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs, Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar lauded the initiative of the University of Mumbai. He observed that the Centre has immense potential for research, particularly with the university’s carbon dating facilit, and suggested that other language research centres in the country should collaborate through student education exchange programmes.

In his address, Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ravindra Kulkarni, said that the Centre will undertake important work in the study, research, and conservation of India’s linguistic heritage, focusing on Pali, Prakrit and Avesta-Pahlavi. He shared that the Centre will implement initiatives such as documentation of ancient manuscripts, digitisation, use of artificial intelligence and machine learning in language studies, and creation of educational content aligned with the National Education Policy in 22 constitutionally recognised languages.

The Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India, has approved a grant of ₹49.95 crore for the establishment of the Centre under the centrally sponsored scheme Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK).

The foundation stone ceremony, held under the chairmanship of Vice Chancellor of the University of Mumbai, Prof. Ravindra Kulkarni, was attended by Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs, Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar; Joint Secretary, Shri Ram Singh; Pro Vice Chancellor, Principal Dr. Ajay Bhamre; Registrar, Dr. Prasad Karande; and other dignitaries. On the occasion, Pro Vice Chancellor, Principal Dr. Ajay Bhamre expressed gratitude to all dignitaries and participants for the successful organisation of the programme.

PIB Mumbai | Edgar Coelho/Preeti Malandkar

 

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