Tulu gets recognition as Karnataka's second additional administrative language

The Karnataka Cabinet on Friday decided to recognise Tulu as the state's second additional administrative language, Chief Minister D K Shivakumar said.

The decision is aimed at recognising the cultural and linguistic significance of Tulu, which is spoken predominantly in the coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi.

Shivakumar said Tulu has considerable potential for educational and cultural development and that the government's decision would help provide greater recognition to the language.

According to a Cabinet note shared by the Chief Minister's Office, Tulu will be recognised as the state's "second additional administrative language".

The decision comes amid continued efforts to promote the linguistic and cultural heritage of Karnataka's coastal region, which has a distinct identity shaped by its traditions, languages and historical links.

Shivakumar also announced that the state government would formulate a separate tourism policy for coastal Karnataka, highlighting the region's long coastline, cultural traditions and numerous religious and heritage sites.

The proposed policy is expected to focus specifically on the tourism potential of the coastal belt and promote its natural, cultural and religious attractions.

The Chief Minister further said the Cabinet had approved development projects worth ₹32,611 crore. Of the approved proposals, around ₹16,000 crore has been earmarked for rural development, while an equivalent amount has been allocated for development in the coastal region.

The announcements underline the government's focus on strengthening infrastructure and development in both rural and coastal areas while giving greater prominence to the cultural identity of Karnataka's coastal districts.

The recognition of Tulu as an additional administrative language is also expected to provide a formal boost to efforts aimed at preserving and promoting the language and its cultural heritage.