What are the main branches of the Austro-Asiatic language family?

The Austro-Asiatic language family is one of the largest language families in the world, comprising numerous languages spoken primarily in Southeast Asia and parts of the Indian subcontinent. Within this language family, there are several main branches that can be identified. These branches include:

1. Munda Branch: The Munda branch is one of the major branches of the Austro-Asiatic language family. It is primarily spoken in eastern India, particularly in the states of Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, and Chhattisgarh. The most well-known language within this branch is Santali, which has a significant number of speakers.

2. Mon-Khmer Branch: The Mon-Khmer branch is the largest and most diverse branch of the Austro-Asiatic language family. It is spoken in various countries across Southeast Asia, including Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar. Some of the prominent languages within this branch include Khmer (Cambodian), Vietnamese, and Mon.

3. Aslian Branch: The Aslian branch is a smaller branch of the Austro-Asiatic language family, primarily spoken in peninsular Malaysia. The languages within this branch are spoken by the indigenous Semang and Senoi peoples. Some examples of languages in this branch include Semai, Temiar, and Jahai.

4. Nicobarese Branch: The Nicobarese branch is unique to the Nicobar Islands, which are part of India's Andaman and Nicobar Islands territory. The languages within this branch are spoken by the indigenous Nicobarese people. Some notable languages in this branch include Car, Nancowry, and Great Nicobar.

5. Khasi Branch: The Khasi branch is primarily spoken in the northeastern Indian state of Meghalaya, as well as parts of Assam and Bangladesh. The Khasi language is the most well-known language within this branch and has a significant number of speakers.

It is important to note that the classification and categorization of languages within the Austro-Asiatic language family are subject to ongoing research and debate. As new linguistic data becomes available, the branches and sub-branches within this language family may be further refined or expanded.