The correct option is 22.
Explanation
The Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India lists the languages recognized by the Republic of India. Provisions related to this schedule are found in Articles 344(1) and 351. The schedule is significant for the representation of India's linguistic diversity and for official purposes such as the language of examinations conducted by the Union Public Service Commission.
Evolution of the Eighth Schedule
Originally, the Constitution recognized 14 languages. The list was subsequently expanded through three Constitutional Amendment Acts:
- 21st Amendment Act, 1967: Added Sindhi.
- 71st Amendment Act, 1992: Added Konkani, Manipuri, and Nepali.
- 92nd Amendment Act, 2003: Added Bodo, Dogri, Maithili, and Santhali.
Consequently, the total number of languages currently recognized in the Eighth Schedule is 22. Additionally, the 96th Amendment Act, 2011, substituted the name "Oriya" with "Odia".
Key Takeaway: There are currently 22 languages in the Eighth Schedule, expanded from the original 14 via the 21st, 71st, and 92nd Amendments.