What is the status given to the English language in the Indian Constitution ?

The correct answer is Associate Official language.

Detailed Explanation:

1. Constitutional Framework:
Under Article 343(1) of the Constitution of India, Hindi written in the Devanagari script is declared as the official language of the Union.

2. Transitionary Provision for English:
Article 343(2) provided that the English language would continue to be used for all official purposes of the Union for a period of 15 years from the commencement of the Constitution (i.e., until January 26, 1965).

3. Official Languages Act, 1963:
To ensure a smooth transition and accommodate the linguistic diversity of India, Parliament passed the Official Languages Act in 1963. Section 3 of this Act provided for the continued use of English even after the 15-year period expired.

4. Status of English:
Through these provisions, English retained its status as the Associate Official Language of the Republic of India, working alongside Hindi for administrative, legislative, and official communication purposes.