Sahitya Akademi — Set 4
Awards & Honors · साहित्य अकादमी · Questions 31–40 of 60
Which of these categories of books is NOT eligible for the main Sahitya Akademi Award?
Correct Answer: C. Academic Textbooks
Academic textbooks and technical research works are not eligible for the Sahitya Akademi Award. The award is strictly for creative literature and literary criticism. This ensures the focus remains on the artistic and cultural value of writing.
Who was the first President of the Sahitya Akademi?
Correct Answer: C. Jawaharlal Nehru
Jawaharlal Nehru was the first President of the Sahitya Akademi, serving from 1954 to 1964. He was an accomplished writer himself, known for 'The Discovery of India'. His leadership helped establish the prestige of the institution.
How many languages are listed in the Constitution's Eighth Schedule, all of which are recognized by the Akademi?
Correct Answer: A. 22
There are 22 languages currently listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The Sahitya Akademi recognizes all 22 of these for its annual awards. In addition to these, it also recognizes English and Rajasthani.
What is the duration of the 'publication period' usually considered for the annual Sahitya Akademi Award?
Correct Answer: B. Previous 3 years
The Akademi considers books published in the three years immediately preceding the year of the award. For instance, for the 2024 award, books published between 2020 and 2022 would be reviewed. This allows time for the literary impact of the work to be assessed.
Which project of the Sahitya Akademi aims to document the oral traditions of non-literate communities?
Correct Answer: C. Centre for Tribal and Oral Literature
The Centre for Tribal and Oral Literature (CTOL) focuses on preserving non-written literary traditions. It documents the rich folklore and oral histories of various tribal groups in India. This project helps in preserving endangered cultural knowledge.
Which of these individuals has NOT served as the President of the Sahitya Akademi?
Correct Answer: C. Vikram Seth
Vikram Seth is a famous author but has never served as the President of the Sahitya Akademi. Presidents are usually distinguished writers or scholars elected by the General Council. Figures like Suniti Kumar Chatterjee and U.R. Ananthamurthy have held this prestigious post.
What kind of material is the 'Plaque' given to Sahitya Akademi awardees made of?
Correct Answer: D. Copper
The Sahitya Akademi award plaque is made of copper. It is an engraved plaque that winners receive along with the cash prize. The copper plaque is a symbol of artistic recognition rather than intrinsic monetary value.
The 'Nari Chetna' program of the Sahitya Akademi focuses on which group?
Correct Answer: B. Women writers
'Nari Chetna' is a special literary program dedicated to women writers and their perspectives. It provides a platform for women to discuss gender-specific themes in literature. The Akademi uses this to promote gender diversity in the Indian literary scene.
Which of these is a requirement for a language to be recognized by the Sahitya Akademi?
Correct Answer: A. Must have a script
To be recognized, a language generally needs to have a distinct script and a developed literary tradition. The Akademi evaluates the linguistic and literary status before adding a language to its list. This ensures that the recognized languages have a sustainable literary output.
The Sahitya Akademi's 'Travel Grant' is given to which category of people?
Correct Answer: C. Young writers
The Travel Grant is provided to young writers to visit different parts of the country and meet other writers. This helps them broaden their cultural horizons and understand India's diversity. It is a part of the Akademi's youth outreach initiatives.