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Mother of all languages

According to a report in Forbes magazine, July 1987, Sanskrit is considered the mother of all higher languages. This is because it is the most precise, and therefore suitable language for computer software.

The game of chess and snakes and ladders was invented in India.

The world's highest cricket ground is in Chail, Himachal Pradesh. Built in 1893 after levelling a hilltop, this cricket pitch is 2444 meters above sea level.

According to the Gemological Institute of America, until 1896, India was the only source for diamonds to the world.

The world's first university was established in Takshila in 700 BC. Ayurveda is the earliest school of medicine known to mankind. The father of medicine, Charaka, consolidated Ayurveda 2500 years ago.

India has the maximum number of post offices in the world. The largest employer in the world is the Indian railway system, employing over a million people.

— Compiled by Gaurav Sood

This feature was published on May 22, 2004