When did the Jnanpith Award change from being given for a single outstanding work to recognising a writer's entire body of work?
- From 1975 onwards — the 11th award
- From 1990 onwards — coinciding with the cash prize increase
- From 1982 onwards — beginning with the 18th award
- From 2013 onwards — when English was made eligible
Answer: From 1982 onwards — beginning with the 18th award
From 1965 to 1981 (the first 17 awards), the Jnanpith was given for a specific outstanding work — similar to the Nobel Prize's association with a particular book or play. The rules were revised from the 18th award (1982) to recognise a writer's overall contribution to literature across their career, making it a true lifetime achievement award. This distinction appears in UPSC questions about the selection criteria and rule changes.