IMPHAL, February 21: As in other parts of the world, the International Mother Language Day was observed today in the state with the state function being held at the Kangla Hall.
The state level function was organized by the Research Forum Manipur (REFORM) State Council of Education Research and Training, Government of Manipur.
Addressing the function, Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam said that the mother language is the sole medium of communication and added that educational institutes promote and help in developing a language.
The Dy CM said some 20/30 years back, Hindi and Sanskrit words were used while speaking Manipuri, however in the present generation; such words have been replaced by Manipuri words.
He said the Manipuri language has developed in its spoken form and further expressed his happiness over the inclusion of the Manipuri Language in the 8th Schedule in 1992.
He further appealed to all to put in efforts to develop their mother languages.
The function was also attended by Thangmeiband MLA, Kh Joykishan.
Meanwhile, the day was also observed at the JN Dance Academy with the distribution of the Sui generis Mother Language Award and organized by the Sahitya Thoupang Lup.
The function was attended by Minister Education and CF & PD M Okendro Singh, Parliamentary Secretary IPR K Meghachandra Singh and VC Manipuri University Prof H Nandakumar Sharma as Chief guest, Guest of honor and President respectively.
Even though it may be late, the state government will be now equipped to develop the mother language of Manipur after establishing a separate directorate, said Minister Okendro.
He continued the directorate will develop not only the Meitei language but all the tribal dialects of the state. He continued there are 39 dialects spoken, however there are only a few who have their own scripts. The Manipuri language has its own script and everyone should develop it, he said.
The Sui generis Mother Language Award was given to All Manipur Students’ Union president Th Suresh and Political Analyst L Saratchandra.
Meanwhile, a press release issued by The all Manipur Intellectual Forum (AMIF) said that the International mother Language Day was held today along with the All Manipur Democratic Women’s Front and All Manipur Peasants Union together at the Conference hall of the Marxism Learning centre.