DIMAPUR — For member of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (MLA), Deo Nukhu, on Friday released the Anglo-Poula dictionary (Chakhesang) at the conference hall of Art and Culture department in Kohima.
Speaking at the launch programme, Nukhu, who is also the convener of Chakheasang Poula Literature Committee, stated that language plays a vital role in preserving the cultural heritage.
“Language is your identity, so it is important to develop and preserve our language,” Nukhu said.
He acknowledged the role of Art and Culture department as custodian of Naga culture, tradition, art and historical account and added that everyone has a collective responsibility in preserving languages in its oral and literature form. He expressed hope that the Anglo-Poula dictionary would enrich the collective identity as Naga people and help in preserving the unique languages of the Nagas, stated a DIPR report.
The assistant professor at Nagaland University, Dr. Imlienla Imchen, in her introductory note, said the Poula dictionary was the cumulative work of scholars, language expert and department of Art and culture.
She expressed hope that the effort would be a stepping stone in the documentation and development of the Poula language and literature for future generation to work, build, rework and rebuild on this foundation.
The programme was chaired by the joint director, Meseno Peseyie, while an invocation prayer was said by Rev. Vekuo Rhi, associate pastor of Chakheasang Baptist Church Kohima, and the welcome address was delivered by the joint secretary, Imtitemsu.
Folk tune was presented by Zhavame Women Society Kohima and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the director of Art and Culture, Adele Moa.